Where can I get a flu vaccine in London?

It's that time of year again when a journey on the Tube means trying to dodge the coughs and sneezes of the person sitting next to you.With flu season approaching, Londoners heading into busy offices or squeezing onto packed public transport may be considering getting vaccinated ahead of winter.Health leaders in London have urged anyone who is eligible to get their flu jab this year to help hospitals cope with the pressure. NHS teams faced nearly 433,000 A&E attendances in September, a rise of almost 24,500 on August.This is an average daily increase of over 1,200, alongside 129,900 ambulance incidents, up around 730 on the previous month. But where can you get a flu jab in the capital, and can you get one for free?Where can I get a flu jab in London?Many high street and independent pharmacies across London offer free NHS flu vaccinations to those who meet the eligibility criteria.Major pharmacy chains, including Boots and Day Lewis, offer appointments at participating branches, with some locations also providing walk-in services, subject to availability.Those eligible for a free NHS flu jab can book through the NHS flu vaccination booking service, the NHS App or by calling 119. You can also contact your GP surgery to find out whether appointments are available.Who is eligible for a free NHS flu jab?Free NHS flu vaccinations are available to certain groups considered to be at greater risk of becoming seriously ill from the virus.These include adults aged 65 and over, pregnant women, people with certain long-term health conditions aged between 18 and 64, eligible carers and frontline health and social care workers.How much does a private flu jab cost?If you are not eligible for a free NHS vaccination, you can still get a flu jab privately at pharmacies and clinics across London.Prices typically range from around £20 to £35, depending on the provider and location.It's worth checking availability and prices online before visiting, as appointments and walk-in services can vary between branches.Read MoreDr Chris Streather, Regional Medical Director for the NHS in London, said: "It's easy to think flu is only a problem once winter sets in, but the virus doesn't wait for cold weather, and neither should you. For some children and pregnant women, it can lead to serious illness or a hospital stay. "Vaccination takes just a few minutes, yet it offers real protection, both for you and for the people around you who may be more vulnerable to serious illness. Getting it done now means you're already protected by the time winter pressures and illness really start to bite. "If you're pregnant, I'd encourage you to speak to your maternity team, GP or local pharmacy about getting protected. And if your child is eligible, please take up the offer when it's available, there's no need to wait."