Asda has halved the price of its private flu vaccinations from £9.98 to £4.98, saying it wants to help ensure the “nation is as protected as possible this flu season”.

The company said the price cut makes their flu jab the “cheapest on the market – at a crucial time in the winter season when cases are high”.

It said customers can book an appointment at one of its 254 pharmacies online or in store.

Asda previously announced a £2 ‘cash pot’ incentive to customers that use the company’s app and book a flu jab appointment online.

Earlier this week, Well Pharmacy announced it was cutting the cost of its private flu jabs from £15 to £10, citing the cost of living crisis as well as concerns that the current flu season may follow the worrying trend seen in America.

Asda’s superintendent pharmacist Faisal Tuddy said: “It’s so important to get your flu jab, especially if you are vulnerable or visiting family members this Christmas. At a time when we’re seeing cases of flu rise rapidly, we’re proud to be able to make this service as accessible as possible to anyone that wants it.”