Seasonal Vaccinations: Flu and COVID‑19

Every year in spring (COVID only), autumn and winter the NHS offers flu and COVID‑19 vaccinations to help protect people from these seasonal viruses, which can cause serious illness — especially in older adults, people with underlying health conditions, and others at higher risk.

Flu (Influenza) Vaccine

The flu vaccine is offered each year from autumn through to March to reduce the risk of severe flu, hospitalisation and complications.

Who is eligible for the NHS flu vaccine?
You are eligible if you are:

• Aged 65 years and over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2026)

• Pregnant at any stage of pregnancy

• Aged six months to under 65 with certain health conditions (e.g. asthma requiring steroids, COPD, heart disease, diabetes, chronic kidney or liver conditions, weakened immune system)

• Living in a care home for older adults

• A carer (receiving carers allowance or the main carer for an older or disabled person)

• Living with someone with a weakened immune system

• A health or social care worker (through employer programmes)

Flu vaccinations help protect you and reduce the spread to others, particularly during peak winter months.

For more detail from the NHS: NHS Flu Vaccine – https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/flu-vaccine/

COVID‑19 Vaccine

This season the COVID‑19 vaccine programme focuses on people most at risk of serious COVID‑19.

Who is eligible for the COVID‑19 vaccine this season?
You are eligible if you are:

• 75 years and over (including those who will turn 75 by 31 January 2026)

• A resident in a care home for older adults

• Immunosuppressed (aged 6 months and over with a weakened immune system due to a health condition or treatment, as defined by NHS guidance)

The COVID‑19 vaccine programmes usually run from April through to June, and October through to January to boost immunity.

More official detail: NHS Seasonal Flu & COVID‑19 Vaccination Programme – COVID - NHS Guidance

Where eligible, people can normally receive flu and COVID‑19 vaccines at the same time.

Notes for patients:

• Seasonal vaccines are updated each year to give the best possible protection.

• Eligibility can change, so if you’re unsure whether you qualify, please check NHS guidance or ask your GP practice