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COVID-19 Vaccination Programme

COVID-19 information and advice.

The COVID-19 vaccine helps protect against COVID-19, which can be a serious or life-threatening illness for some people. It's usually offered on the NHS in spring and early winter to people who need extra protection from COVID-19.

Who should have the COVID-19 vaccine

This year the eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine has changed. The following groups are eligible for the vaccine, please check that you are eligible before booking for a vaccine: 

  • are aged 75 or over (including those who will be 75 by 31 January 2026)
  • are aged 6 months to 74 years and have a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment
  • live in a care home for older adults

For the latest NHS information and advice about coronavirus (COVID-19) and vaccinations, visit the NHS website.

Health conditions and treatments that mean you're eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine

You may be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine if you have a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment. This can include if you:

  • have or had blood cancer, such as leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma
  • have had an organ transplant, bone marrow transplant or stem cell transplant
  • have HIV
  • have a genetic disorder that affects your immune system, such as severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)
  • are having or recently had chemotherapy, biological therapy or radiotherapy
  • are taking steroid medicine (depending on the dose)
  • are having long term immunosuppressive treatment for a condition such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), scleroderma or psoriasis

This list is a summary and does not include everything. Speak to your local pharmacy, GP surgery or specialist if you're not sure if you're eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.

Immunosuppressed patients

If you develop a new health condition or start treatment that severely weakens your immune system, you may need additional protection.

Your specialist will assess whether you need an additional vaccine.

They will make a referral and advise on the best timing for vaccination around your planned treatment. Speak to your specialist for more information.

Vaccinations clinics 

To find a pharmacy or vaccination clinic in your area visit our vaccination clinic webpage, where we will be updating the page with the latest clinics that are available throughout the winter.

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