Getting vaccinated is always one of the best ways to protect yourself from serious illness this winter. We are encouraging everyone eligible for a flu and COVID-19 vaccination to get protected early. It will help reduce the risk of serious illness and ease pressure on NHS services during the busiest months of the year.
Every winter, flu and COVID-19 put extra pressure on hospitals and GP services, with infections increasing as the weather gets colder and people spend more time indoors. Vaccination remains the best way to reduce the risk of becoming seriously ill and needing hospital treatment.
This year’s winter vaccination programme will begin on 1 September, giving those most at risk the opportunity to build up protection before winter viruses begin to circulate more widely.
The flu vaccine will be available for pregnant women and children aged 2 and 3 years (on 31 August 2026), with the school vaccination programme beginning when the new school year starts.
From 1 October, flu vaccinations will also be offered to older adults, people with certain long term health conditions, carers, care home residents, frontline health and social care workers and others eligible under the national programme.
COVID-19 vaccinations will be offered from 1 October to eligible groups, including people aged 75 and over, older adult care home residents and people aged six months to 74 years with a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment.
Where people are eligible for both vaccines, they may be able to receive their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at the same appointment, making it quicker and more convenient to get protected.
Dr Manisha Kumar, chief clinical officer from NHS Greater Manchester said:
“As we head towards winter, we’re asking everyone who is eligible to think about vaccination now and not to wait for winter illnesses to arrive.”
“Flu and COVID-19 can both make people seriously unwell, particularly older people, pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions. Every vaccination helps reduce the risk of serious illness, hospital admission and passing these viruses on to family, friends and people who are more vulnerable.
“If you’re invited for your winter vaccinations, please take up the offer as soon as you can. It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself and help reduce pressure on NHS services during what is always our busiest time of year.”
Adult flu and COVID-19 vaccinations will be available through participating GP practices and community pharmacies.
School aged children will continue to be offered the flu vaccine at school as part of the national childhood vaccination programme. Children can spread flu easily, so vaccinating them helps protect both themselves and those around them. Parents whose child misses their school vaccination session will be able to arrange a catch-up appointment.
Children aged 2 and 3 years, and children with eligible health conditions, can receive their flu vaccination through their GP practice as a quick and easy nasal spray. Some children may be offered the injected flu vaccine instead due to certain health conditions.
Health and social care workers are also encouraged to take up the offer of vaccination to help protect themselves, their colleagues and the people they care for.
At a glance – who is eligible for a flu vaccine?
From 1 September 2026
- Pregnant women
- All children aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2026
- Primary school aged children (Reception to Year 6)
- Secondary school aged children (Year 7 to Year 11)
- Young people aged 17+ who meet specific criteria
- All children from six months of age who are in clinical risk groups
From 1 October 2026
- Adults aged 65 years and over
- Those aged 16-64 in clinical risk groups
- People with certain long term health conditions
- Residents in care homes
- Carers in receipt of Carer’s Allowance, or those who are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person
- Close contacts of people who are immunocompromised
- Eligible frontline health and social care workers
Who is eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine?
From 1 October 2026
- Residents in a care home for older adults.
- Adults aged 75 years and over.
- People aged six months to 74 years with a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment.
People will be contacted when it is their turn to book a vaccination. Eligible residents can also book through the National Booking Service or attend participating walk-in clinics where available.
Click here to find out more about winter vaccinations
