Getting seasonal vaccinations
The risk of illnesses, like flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) significantly increase during the colder months and winter.
COVID-19 and RSV can still be dangerous and even life-threatening outside of the winter months.
Vaccines are the best protection against these viruses.
For more information on the importance of winter vaccinations, watch Let’s talk about winter vaccinations (YouTube).
Flu vaccine
The flu vaccine is recommended for people at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu.
Anyone can get the flu vaccine, but some people can get it for free.
Who can get a free flu vaccine
You can get a free NHS flu vaccine if you:
- are aged 65 or over
- have certain long-term health conditions
- are pregnant
- live in a care home
- are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer’s allowance
- live with someone who has a weakened immune system
If you’re a frontline health or social care worker, you can get a free flu vaccine through your employer.
Most children also get free flu vaccines.
How to get your flu vaccine
The NHS will let you know in autumn or early winter when you can get your flu vaccine.
If you’re eligible for an NHS flu vaccine, you’ll be able to get your vaccine from:
- your GP surgery
- a pharmacy that offers NHS flu vaccination (if you’re aged 18 or over)
School-aged children will be offered the vaccine by their school.
COVID-19 vaccine
Check if you can get a COVID-19 vaccine on the NHS website.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine
RSV is a leading cause of bronchiolitis (severe chest infection) in older adults and infants. If you get the vaccine when you’re pregnant, it will help protect your newborn baby.
The RSV vaccine is available all year.
Who can get the RSV vaccine
You can get the vaccine if you’re either:
- at least 28 weeks’ pregnant
- aged 75 to 79
How to get your RSV vaccine
You can get your vaccine through your GP or maternity services.