During winter, viruses like COVID-19 spread more easily and can make some people very sick, especially older people or those with weakened immune systems.
At the start of October, the NHS began its COVID-19 winter vaccination programme, offering free vaccines to people most at risk, to help keep them protected.
The COVID-19 vaccine rules have changed this year
This year, the NHS has changed who is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. This is to make sure that those most at risk of becoming seriously unwell are offered the vaccine.
It is possible for you to be eligible for the flu vaccine but not eligible for the COVID-19 vaccination, even if you’ve had it previously.
Who can get the COVID-19 vaccine this winter
This winter, the COVID-19 vaccine is being offered to older people and those who have a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment.
You can get the COVID-19 vaccine if you:
- 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 (see below)
- live in a care home for older adults
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 practice or specialist if you’re not sure if you’re eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.
How to get the COVID-19 vaccine
You can get your COVID-19 vaccine by making an appointment with your GP practice or local pharmacy. You can also go to a walk-in vaccination site.
If you are aged 75 and over and live in a care home for adult adults, you can get vaccinated at your care home.
Why is it important to get the COVID-19 vaccine?
During the colder months, viruses like COVID-19 can spread more easily. This is because we tend to spend more time indoors and around other people.
For some, like older people and those with a weakened immune system, COVID-19 can lead to serious illness and even time in hospital.
If you’re eligible, getting your COVID-19 vaccine this winter – even if you’ve had it before, tops up your protection and reduces your risk or getting seriously unwell if you do get the illness.
Other winter vaccinations
As well as the COVID-19 vaccine, the NHS is also offering vaccines, to those eligible, for flu and RSV. By getting your vaccinations, you not only reduce your own risk but also help prevent spreading viruses to others – helping to protect your family and community.
Keep protected this winter, find out more about winter vaccines and where to get them.
Visit our winter vaccination hub
