Now is the time to top up your protection against winter viruses
People across the North East and North Cumbria are being urged to book their winter vaccinations as the NHS prepares to widen its flu and Covid-19 offer.
Around 1.6 million people in the region are eligible for a free flu vaccine this year, while approximately 401,000 can get a Covid-19 booster.
Pregnant women and children have been able to get their flu vaccine since September. From 1 October, appointments will also be available for people aged 65 and over, adults with certain long-term health conditions and other eligible groups.
Covid-19 vaccinations will begin on the same day for people aged 75 and over, residents of care homes for older adults, and people aged six months and over with a weakened immune system.
Dr Neil O’Brien, chief medical officer, NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “Winter viruses can make some people seriously ill. If you’re eligible for a vaccine, now is the time to make your appointment.
“Vaccination greatly reduces the risk of serious illness and getting protected ahead of winter gives you the best chance of staying well when these viruses are circulating."
Seasonal flu and Covid-19 vaccinations
Flu and Covid-19 vaccines are offered seasonally to top up protection. Eligible people should have their flu vaccine every year and their Covid-19 vaccine when offered as part of the seasonal programme.
Who can get a free flu vaccine?
- people aged 65 and over, including those who turn 65 by March 31, 2027
- pregnant women
- adults with certain long-term health conditions including a learning disability
- care home residents
- children aged two and three and schoolchildren from Reception to Year 11
- eligible carers
- people living with someone with a weakened immune system
- people experiencing homelessness
- frontline health and social care workers
Who can get a Covid-19 vaccine?
- people aged 75 and over, including those who turn 75 by January 31, 2027
- residents of care homes for older adults
- people aged six months and over who are immunosuppressed because of a health condition or treatment
Year-round RSV and pneumococcal vaccinations
RSV and pneumococcal vaccines are available throughout the year.
For older adult programmes, a single dose is offered at or after age 75 for RSV and at or after age 65 for pneumococcal vaccination. These do not need an annual top-up.
Who can get an RSV vaccine?
RSV can cause serious breathing problems, particularly in babies and older adults. The NHS offers an RSV vaccine throughout the year to:
- pregnant women from 28 weeks
- adults aged 75 and over
- residents of care homes for older adults
- some people aged 65 to 74 with a weakened immune system or long-term lung condition
Older adults only need one dose of the RSV vaccine, which provides protection for several years. It is not usually given at the same appointment as the flu vaccine, although a doctor or nurse may recommend having them together.
Who can get a pneumococcal vaccine?
People aged 65 and over can also get a pneumococcal vaccine, which helps protect against infections that can cause pneumonia and meningitis. It is offered all year round, with one dose at or after age 65.
Babies and some children and adults, with health conditions, are eligible too. Some people with health conditions may need additional doses.
How to book
Eligible adults can book a flu vaccine or Covid-19 vaccine through the NHS website or NHS App. Anyone who cannot book online can call 119.
Flu vaccines for schoolchildren will be delivered by school vaccination teams, while 2–3-year-olds can get a flu nasal spray at their GP practice or by booking online on the NHS website for an appointment at a participating community pharmacy.
Pregnant women can ask their maternity service about flu and RSV vaccination, while GP practices will usually contact patients eligible for RSV and pneumococcal vaccines.
“Some people, who are more vulnerable to serious illness over winter, may not realise they are eligible for these vaccines, added Dr O'Brien.
"If you are unsure, please check the NHS website or speak to your GP or local pharmacist for advice to get the protection you need."