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.
Where?
If you are eligible, you could receive your vaccination at the following settings:
How?
The National Booking Service (NBS) has now closed. However, if you are severely immunosuppressed, please speak to your GP Practice.
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.