COVID-19 Vaccine

COVID-19 Vaccine

It's important to get your seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccinations if you're at higher risk of getting seriously ill from these illnesses. Seasonal vaccines are offered because viruses change, and protection fades over time.

COVID-19 vaccine

COVID-19 vaccination is effective and the safest way to protect yourself from COVID-19. 

COVID-19 vaccines are normally given seasonally, but some people with a severely weakened immune system may need additional protection at other times. The NHS will contact you if your NHS record suggests you may be eligible for a seasonal COVID-19 vaccine.

There are several different COVID-19 vaccines in use in the UK. They have all met strict standards of safety, quality and effectiveness. You cannot choose which COVID-19 vaccine you have. Most people can have any of the COVID-19 vaccines and you will be offered a vaccine that is suitable for you.

Find out more about the COVID-19 vaccination. Find out more about why vaccination is important and the safest way to protect yourself.

Who?

Spring 2025 programme

You may be eligible if you are:

  • aged 75 years and over
  • a resident in a care home for older adults
  • aged 6 months and over and are immunosuppressed, as defined in  COVID-19: the green book, chapter 14a; Tables 3 and 4

If you have never been vaccinated before, or if you only had one dose, you can still get your seasonal vaccination. You only need one COVID-19 vaccination during the seasonal period (if you are aged 5 or over). It must be at least 3 months (91 days) since your last COVID-19 vaccination.

Who else can get a COVID-19 vaccine?

  • If you have had a stem cell transplant or CAR-T therapy, your specialist may advise you that you need re-vaccination against COVID-19. Speak to your specialist or GP for advice.

Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine for travel or other purposes?

  • If you are not in an eligible group, it is not currently possible to access COVID-19 vaccination on the NHS or privately in England. The NHS website has more information about who is eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination.

When?

The Spring 2025 vaccination programme has now closed. Vaccinations will be available again during Autumn/Winter 2025. Pleas check back for more information. 

Treatment and lateral flow tests

If you (or someone you look after) are in a group of people at highest risk you should have a pack of five COVID-19 lateral flow device (LFD/LFT) tests to keep at home, in case you develop COVID-19 symptoms.

Easy read

Why do I need a COVID-19 vaccine?

The coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines are safe, effective and free. They give you the best protection against COVID-19. They will help your body fight COVID-19 without getting poorly. An easy read guide to the COVID-19 vaccine is available.

If you would prefer to watch a video, please have a look at this video on YouTube.