Flu and COVID-19 Vaccinations 2026
Flu and COVID-19 Vaccinations 2026
Protect Yourself This Winter
Our Autumn 2026 vaccination programme will begin from September and October 2026. Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself, your family and the NHS from serious illness caused by flu and COVID-19. Eligible patients are being invited via text, email and phone calls.
Flu Vaccinations
Who can have a free NHS flu vaccine?
From 1 September 2026
The flu vaccine is available for:
- Pregnant women
- Children aged 2 and 3 years on 31 August 2026
- Primary and secondary school-aged children (Reception to Year 11)
- Children aged 6 months to under 18 years who are in a clinical risk group
From 1 October 2026
The flu vaccine is available for:
- Adults aged 65 years and over
- Adults aged 18 to 64 years in a clinical risk group
- Residents of long-stay care homes
- Carers
- Close contacts of people with weakened immune systems
- Eligible frontline social care workers
COVID-19 Vaccinations
The Government has accepted advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) for the Autumn 2026 COVID-19 programme. Eligible patients will be offered a COVID-19 booster from October 2026.
Who is eligible?
- Adults aged 75 years and over
- Residents in care homes for older adults
- People aged 6 months and over who are immunosuppressed (have a significantly weakened immune system)
Can I Have Both Vaccines Together?
Yes. If you are eligible for both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines, you may be offered both vaccinations at the same appointment where clinically appropriate. This is safe, effective and helps provide protection before winter pressures increase.
How Will I Be Invited?
Eligible patients will receive an invitation by:
- Text message
- NHS App
- Phone call (where appropriate)
Please ensure the practice has your current mobile number, email address and home address so that we can contact you.
Why Vaccination Is Important
Flu and COVID-19 can cause serious illness, particularly in older adults, pregnant women, people with long-term health conditions and those with weakened immune systems. Vaccination helps to:
- Reduce your risk of serious illness and hospital admission
- Protect vulnerable friends and family members
- Help reduce pressure on NHS services during winter
- Lower the spread of infection within the community
Frequently Asked Questions
I had a vaccine last year. Do I still need one this year?
Yes. Protection from both flu and COVID-19 vaccines reduces over time, and vaccine formulations are updated to provide the best protection against currently circulating strains.
Can I have the vaccine if I am pregnant?
Yes. The flu vaccine is recommended during pregnancy and helps protect both mother and baby.
What if I think I am eligible but haven't been contacted?
Please contact the practice and we will be happy to check your eligibility.
Book Your Appointment
Appointments are currently being booked - Eligible patients will be invited automatically.
If you have not received a link to book, or would prefer to book by phone, please contact us on 01726 626801 (9am- 3pm Monday to Friday) and our team will be happy to help.
For further information, please speak to a member of our team or visit the NHS website.
Help protect yourself this winter – don't delay your vaccination. 💉❄️