Seasonal vaccinations are offered at different points during the year to those people who are at the highest risk of serious illness or hospitalisation.
Seasonal vaccinations are given every year and currently include flu and COVID‑19. These vaccines are updated annually because flu and COVID strains change. Having the vaccines helps to protect you, particularly during winter and reduces the risk of serious illness. You can still catch flu or COVID‑19 after vaccination, but symptoms will be milder.
Since 2024, the RSV vaccination has also been offered to pregnant women and older people.
Flu vaccination
Flu vaccinations are offered in the autumn and winter every year. If you're eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine, you can book an appointment at your GP surgery or a local pharmacy.
If you are not eligible for a free flu vaccine under the NHS, you can attend most pharmacies and pay a small fee.
Find out if you are eligible for the flu vaccine.
Find a pharmacy that offers free flu vaccination.
Maternity services will also offer pregnant women a flu vaccination.
Find out more about the flu vaccination for pregnant women.
Children's flu vaccination
Children aged 2 and 3 years are offered a free nasal spray each year at their GP surgery.
School aged children are vaccinated in school, or at clinics during school holidays, by the school aged immunisation service.
Get more information about the flu vaccination for children.
Find out about the school aged immunisation service.
Check the school aged holiday clinics.
Covid vaccination
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.
If you're eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination, you will be contacted by the NHS. If you are worried that you have missed your COVID vaccine, please contact your GP practice.
Find out if you're eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine.
Find out more about where and when you can get a COVID-19 vaccine on the NHS.
RSV vaccination
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that primarily affects the respiratory tract, causing mild cold-like symptoms in most people, but can lead to severe illness in babies and the elderly.
RSV is most common during the autumn and winter months; however, the vaccination is available throughout the year. It is given as a single, one‑off dose and does not need to be repeated annually.
Find out more about who is eligible for the RSV vaccination.