Why should I have COVID-19 vaccination?
COVID-19 vaccination is an important part of protecting yourself if you’re at increased risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19.
The COVID-19 vaccines are offered because viruses change and protection fades over time. It’s important to top up your protection if you’re eligible.
Getting the COVID-19 vaccine can:
- Help reduce your risk of getting severe symptoms
- Help you recover more quickly if you catch COVID-19
- Help reduce your risk of having to go to hospital or dying from COVID-19
- Protect against different types of COVID-19 virus
You may still get or spread COVID-19 even if you have a vaccine, so it’s important to follow advice about how to avoid catching and spreading COVID-19.
Who should have the COVID-19 vaccine
The COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for people at increased risk from COVID-19.
You may be offered a COVID-19 vaccine if you:
- Are aged 65 or over
- Are pregnant
- Are aged 6 months to 64 years and have an increased risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19 because of a health condition or treatment
- Live in a care home for older adults
- Are a frontline health or social care worker.
How to get the COVID-19 vaccine
If you’re eligible for the winter COVID-19 vaccine, you can:
- Book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment online or in the NHS App – you need to book your vaccination before 20 December 2024
- Go to a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination site
Some people may be able to get vaccinated through a local service, such as a community pharmacy or your GP surgery, or a care home if they live in a care home.
You do not need to wait for an invitation before booking an appointment.
How the COVID-19 vaccine is given
The COVID-19 vaccine is given as an injection.
Most people only need 1 dose of the winter COVID-19 vaccine.
