COVID-19 and Flu Vaccination Programme Launches Across Frimley Health and Care to Protect Vulnerable Communities This Winter
Frimley Health and Care has today (1 October) launched its winter vaccination programme, offering eligible residents protection against COVID-19, flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
This winter, eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine has been updated, with invitations being sent to:
- People aged 75 and over (including those turning 75 by 31 January 2026)
- Individuals aged 6 months to 74 years with a weakened immune system due to a health condition or treatment
- Residents of care homes for older adults
Eligibility for the flu vaccination remains unchanged, covering:
- People aged 65 and over (including those turning 65 by 31 March 2026)
- People with certain long-term health conditions
- Pregnant women
- Residents of care homes
- Main carers for older or disabled people, or those receiving a carer’s allowance
- People living with someone who has a weakened immune system
Eligible residents may receive an invitation directly from their GP practice or can book an appointment via the NHS National Booking Service, with slots available at participating pharmacies. Thousands of appointments are available across the Frimley Health and Care area, which stretches from East Berkshire through North East Hampshire, Farnham and Surrey. Local walk-in clinics are also advertised through the Find a Walk-in COVID-19 Vaccination service.
Flu vaccinations for children and pregnant women began in September to curb early transmission. For the first time this year, children aged 2–3 will also be able to receive the nasal flu vaccine at one of 45 participating pharmacies across the region as well as at their GP surgery, visit the Frimley Health and Care Website to find the full list of participating pharmacies.
The NHS is again offering the RSV vaccine, aimed at protecting people aged 75–79 and pregnant women from 28 weeks, helping to prevent thousands of A&E attendances and hospital admissions.
Dr Lalitha Iyer, Chief Medical Officer for Frimley Health and Care, emphasised the importance of vaccination:
“Each year we see too many people at high risk of severe illness from winter viruses who miss out on their vaccines. Sadly, this results in avoidable hospitalisations and deaths.
“If you are invited, please don’t delay—book your vaccination promptly. If you are unsure of your eligibility, contact your GP or local pharmacist for advice.”
The NHS is urging all eligible residents to take up the offer of vaccination to safeguard their health and help reduce pressures on local health services this winter.