Should your winter include vaccinations?
Free Covid-19 and flu vaccinations are offered to people aged 50 and over, pregnant women, older adult care home residents, paid and unpaid carers, those with certain health conditions and frontline health and care staff. They give the best possible protection against serious illness from these viruses which circulate more, and cause greatest harm, in winter.
Flu vaccines are also offered to young children, primary school aged and some secondary school aged children.
Dr Nikki Kanani, the NHS’s Medical Director for Primary Care and Deputy Lead for NHS Covid-19 Vaccination, recently had her flu and Covid-19 vaccines, joining the millions who have come forward since September.
She said: “The NHS is offering flu and Covid vaccinations at thousands of sites across the country. You may even be able to get both at the same time, although this will not always be possible, so the important thing is to get each vaccine as soon as you can.”
The NHS answered our top questions
Do I need another vaccine? The flu vaccine is annual because the viruses that cause flu change every year. Immunity from Covid vaccines reduce over time, so those at greater risk should top up again. This year, the next-generation bivalent vaccine targets original and newer variants of the virus for extra protection.
Are they safe? Like all vaccines offered by the NHS, flu and Covid vaccines are safe and effective. They have been approved by the Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Are they vegetarian? NHS Covid-19 vaccines don’t contain gelatine, eggs or animal products. Muslim jurists have said these are permissible and suitable for a halal diet. Injectable flu vaccines don’t contain gelatine and you can ask for one that doesn’t contain egg. The flu nasal spray contains gelatine, but you can ask about an injectable alternative.
Are they safe in pregnancy? You can get the flu and Covid-19 vaccines at any time during your pregnancy, from the first few weeks up to your expected due date.
Will I get ill? The vaccines don’t give you the virus and side-effects are usually mild and don’t last more than a day or so.
Can I have my missed Covid-19 vaccine? Yes – if you need your first, second or another earlier dose, you can book them now.
To find out more and book your vaccinations, please visit www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations
