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.
Who should have the COVID-19 vaccine
You can get a COVID-19 vaccine if you:
- are aged 75 or over (including those who will be 31 January 2026)
- are aged 6 months to 74 years and have a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment
- live in a care home for older adults
For the latest NHS information and advice about coronavirus (COVID-19) and vaccinations, visit the NHS website.
Health conditions and treatments that mean you're eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine
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 surgery or specialist if you're not sure if you're eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.
Immunosuppressed patients
If you develop a new health condition or start treatment that severely weakens your immune system, you may need additional protection.
Your specialist will assess whether you need an additional vaccine.
They will make a referral and advise on the best timing for vaccination around your planned treatment. Speak to your specialist for more information.
Vaccination clinics
If you are eligible for the Winter vaccine, the local vaccinations clinics offering the COVID-19 vaccination can be found on the vaccination clinic page.