Covid-19 vaccination

COVID-19 remains more serious for older adults and those with certain underlying health conditions. This spring, many respiratory infections, including COVID-19 and flu, are expected to continue circulating, which may place increased pressure on hospitals and healthcare services.

To help protect those most at risk, the NHS is offering a COVID-19 vaccine from April 2025 to:

• People aged 75 years and over
• Residents in older adult care homes
• Individuals aged 6 months and over with weakened immune systems

This includes those who will turn 75 years old by 17 June 2025. They will be eligible for a vaccination at any point in the campaign. Those who are new residents in an older adult care home or become immunosuppressed by 17 June 2025 are also eligible.

This vaccination programme aims to reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation from COVID-19. If you are eligible, you will be invited to book your vaccination appointment.

Timing of Your Vaccination

You should be offered an appointment between April and June, with those at the highest risk being prioritised. You should receive your vaccine at least 3 months after your last dose.

Which Vaccine Will You Be Offered?

The vaccines available for the spring campaign are updated versions of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. These provide improved protection against newer COVID-19 variants. As we cannot predict which variants will circulate, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has advised that these updated vaccines offer the best protection. You will receive the most suitable vaccine for you.

Who Should Not Have the Vaccine?

There are very few people who should not have this vaccine. If you have had a severe reaction to a previous COVID-19 vaccine, consult your doctor before getting vaccinated.

Side Effects

Most side effects are mild and short-lived. Common side effects include:

• Soreness, heaviness, or tenderness in the vaccinated arm (typically worst 1-2 days after vaccination)
• Tiredness
• Headache
• General aches or mild flu-like symptoms

These symptoms usually resolve within a few days. Rest and paracetamol (following dosage instructions) can help relieve discomfort.

Rare Side Effects

In rare cases, inflammation of the heart (myocarditis or pericarditis) has been reported, particularly in younger men, within days of receiving the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines.

Symptoms include:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• A fast, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience these symptoms.

Can You Still Catch COVID-19 After Vaccination?

The vaccine significantly reduces the risk of severe illness but does not guarantee complete immunity. Some vaccinated individuals may still catch COVID-19; however, the illness should be less severe.

Report Side Effects

You can report suspected side effects via the Yellow Card scheme:

• Online at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard
• By calling 0800 731 6789 (Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm)
• By downloading the Yellow Card app