Boost Your Immunity This Winter – NHS Advises Flu and COVID-19 Vaccinations

With the colder months fast approaching, it’s time to make sure you and your loved ones are protected against flu and COVID-19. As protection from previous vaccinations fades and viruses change over time, topping up your immunity is key to keeping symptoms milder and speeding up recovery if you contract either virus this winter.

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

Certain groups are more at risk from flu and COVID-19, so it’s important they receive their vaccinations. These groups include:

• People aged 65 and over (including those who will turn 65 by 31 March 2025)
• Individuals with long-term health conditions
• Pregnant women
• Frontline health or social care workers
• Residents in care homes for older adults

Additionally, carers, those living with someone who has a weakened immune system, and other care home residents can also receive the flu vaccine. Children aged 2 to 17 can get the children’s flu vaccine, and some children with health conditions may be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine as well.

How to Get Vaccinated

Eligible for the NHS flu or COVID-19 vaccines? Here’s how to book:

• Flu Vaccine: If you’re 18 or over, you can book a flu vaccination at your local pharmacy online or via the NHS App. Alternatively, contact your GP surgery. Pregnant women may be able to get vaccinated through their maternity service, and care home residents can access vaccines where they live.

  Children aged 2 and 3 can get their flu vaccines at the GP, while school-aged children will receive theirs at school or through a community clinic. Find out more about flu vaccinations.

• COVID-19 Vaccine: Eligible individuals can book a COVID-19 vaccine appointment online or through the NHS App. You can also go to a walk-in vaccination site. Some people may be able to receive their vaccination via local services like community pharmacies, GP surgeries, or care homes. Learn more.

Additional Winter Vaccines

Other vaccines are also available for eligible individuals to help combat serious illnesses common during winter, including:

• Pneumococcal Vaccine for those aged 65 and over
• RSV Vaccine for pregnant women and those aged 75 to 79, as well as those turning 80 on or after 1 September 2024

These vaccines help protect against illnesses like pneumonia, which can pose significant risks during cold weather.

Tips to Stay Healthy This Winter

Aside from vaccinations, there are other steps you can take to stay healthy during the winter:

• Keep Warm: Ensure your home is heated to at least 18°C, especially if you have a health condition. It’s also essential to have your heating and cooking appliances checked by a Gas Safe registered engineer to ensure they are working correctly. For advice on making your home fire-safe, visit the Home Fire Safety Check website.
• Get Help with Heating: There are grants, benefits, and advice available to help make your home more energy-efficient and to cover heating costs. For more information, visit GOV.UK or call the government helpline on 0800 444 202. You can also access financial support if you’re on a low income by contacting GOV.UK.

Helping Others During Cold Weather

Cold weather can be challenging for older adults and vulnerable people. Checking in on elderly neighbours, relatives, and friends to see if they need any help with groceries, prescriptions, or other support is crucial during the winter months. Encourage them to wear proper footwear for icy conditions and to wrap up warm when venturing outdoors.

If someone you know is unwell or requires urgent medical help, they can contact NHS 111 by visiting 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111. For emergencies, go to A&E or call 999 immediately.

Stay protected this winter and ensure that you, your loved ones, and your community are prepared for the colder months ahead.