NHS COVID-19 and flu vaccination services
We are offering NHS vaccinations to the following adult groups for flu and COVID. You will be sent an invitation from the NHS if you are eligible for a free jab. You can then use the national booking service to arrange to have your vaccination with Pharmacy2Go at a time which is convenient for you.
NHS flu vaccination programme
You may be eligible for a free flu vaccine if you:
- Are aged 65 or over
- Are aged 18 to 64 and have certain long-term health conditions or are in another higher-risk group. This includes people who have:
- a long-term lung or breathing condition, such as asthma or COPD
- a long-term heart or blood circulation condition
- long-term kidney disease
- long-term liver disease
- a long-term condition affecting the brain or nerves
- diabetes, adrenal insufficiency, no spleen, or a spleen that does not work properly
- a BMI over 40 or
- a weakened immune system due to a health condition or treatment.
- Live in a long-stay residential care home
- Receive carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person
- ·Live with, or have close contact with, someone who has a weakened immune system
- Work on the frontline in social care and do not have access to a flu vaccination through your employer’s occupational health scheme
- Are experiencing homelessness (rough sleepers, using homeless hostels or night-shelters).
- Are pregnant
You will be sent an invitation from the NHS if you are eligible for a free jab. You can then use the national booking service to arrange to have your vaccination with Pharmacy2Go at a time which is convenient for you.
COVID-19 vaccination programme
From 1 October, the COVID-19 vaccine will be offered to people who are at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell from COVID-19.
You may be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine if you:
- are aged 75 or over
- will turn 75 by 31 January 2027
- live in a care home for older adults
- are aged 18 years or over and have a weakened immune system
You will be sent an invitation from the NHS if you are eligible for a free jab. You can then use the national booking service to arrange to have your vaccination with Pharmacy2Go at a time which is convenient for you.
Frequently asked questions
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that is spread through coughs, sneezes and close contact with people who have the virus. It can be serious or even life-threatening for some people, including those who have a weakened immune system because of an underlying illness or treatments they are having.
Symptoms can include a high temperature or shivering, a new continuous cough, a sore throat and a loss or change in sense of smell or taste.
Most people have mild symptoms and recover quickly, but some can become seriously ill. Having a vaccination can reduce your risk of getting severe symptoms and help you recover more quickly if you do get the virus.
What is flu?
Flu is a very infectious virus which is easily spread through germs from coughs and sneezes. It causes symptoms such as:
- body aches
- a sudden high temperature
- loss of appetite
- feeling sick or being sick
- tiredness
- a dry cough
- a sore throat
- a headache
- difficulty sleeping
Our team can give you advice on how to treat your symptoms if you get flu. This could include taking over the counter medication like paracetamol and ibuprofen and getting plenty of rest.
Why should I get vaccinated?
Vaccines can help protect you from getting flu or COVID-19. There is still a chance you may get one of the viruses, but it is likely to be milder and not last as long.
The protection offered by the vaccine reduces over time, which is why it is important to get a jab every year.
What will happen at my appointment?
Our friendly team will ask you some simple questions and talk to you about possible side effects and what to do you if you experience them.
They will then give you the injection in your upper arm, so please wear a short-sleeved top.
Are there any side effects from the COVID-19 or flu vaccination?
The most common side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine are mild and get better within a week. They include:
- mild flu-like symptoms
- feeling tired
- a sore arm from the injection
- feeling achy
- a headache
Getting lots or rest and taking paracetamol can help.
If you are worried about side effects, please contact us or call NHS 111.
Ask someone to take you to A&E if you experience severe symptoms, such as chest pain or a feeling of tightness in the chest, severe difficulty breathing or a pounding, fast-beating or fluttering heart.
The most common side effects of the flu vaccine include:
- a sore arm from the injection
- a slightly raised temperature
- feeling achy
These are usually mild and get better within one or two days.
Are the vaccines safe?
Yes. All vaccines used in the UK meet the strictest standards of safety, quality and effectiveness. They have been approved by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and are continually monitored for safety.