If you have cardiomyopathy, getting a flu (influenza) vaccination is an important thing to do each year to help protect your heart health over the winter.
Why is getting a flu vaccination important for people with cardiomyopathy?
Flu can be more serious for people with heart conditions. This is because it can put extra strain on the heart and may worsen existing symptoms. As cardiomyopathy can affect how well the heart works, getting a flu vaccination is important.
Am I eligible for a flu vaccination?
For winter 2026-27, the following people are eligible for an NHS flu vaccination from 1 October 2026.
- adults aged 18 to 64 with an eligible long-term heart condition
- adults aged 65 or over
- children aged 6 months or above with qualifying medical conditions.
Your eligibility may depend on your specific diagnosis and clinical circumstances. If you have cardiomyopathy but you're not sure whether you're eligible, contact your GP surgery or cardiology team.
How can I get my flu vaccination?
To book your flu vaccination, you can do one of the following:
- book an appointment online
- find a pharmacy that offers vaccinations
- contact your GP surgery to arrange an appointment.