Countdown to COVID-19 vaccine deadline

With only two weeks to go to book a COVID vaccine online, the NHS is encouraging those who are eligible, to go online, call 119 or use the NHS App to book their winter vaccinations by 14 December.

Getting vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 as soon as possible will help increase people’s protection ahead of the winter holidays as it can take up to two weeks to build up maximum defences against the viruses.

Adam Hayward, Assistant Director of Immunisations and Vaccinations in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, said: “As we all get set to gather with friends and family over the festive and new year period, it’s best to get vaccinated now to make sure you are protected from getting sick. More so as it gets colder with viruses spreading more easily and as we spend more time indoors in close contact.

“Our NHS staff are doing an incredible job in the vaccination programme to ensure that as many eligible people as possible receive vital protection quickly and conveniently. There are just two weeks left to book your COVID vaccine so we are now encouraging as many people to come forward as possible before it is too late.

“Even if you have previously had a vaccination or been ill with flu or COVID-19 before, immunity fades over time and these viruses change each year, so it is important you top up your protection.”

After 14 December, those eligible may be able to book a COVID-19 vaccination directly with a pharmacy, or visit a walk-in site, but there will be fewer appointments and you may have to travel further. Those eligible for a free flu vaccine can still contact their GP surgery or visit a pharmacy offering the service after the deadline.

People eligible for both COVID and flu vaccines include:

• People aged 65 and over
• Carers aged 16 years and above
• Immunosuppressed people and their household contacts aged 12 years and above
• People with certain medical conditions (Please find a full list of eligible illnesses on the NHS website)
• Frontline health and social care workers
• Pregnant women

If you are eligible, you can book your flu and seasonal COVID-19 vaccination online at www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations or via the NHS App by 14 December 2023. You will not be able to book a vaccination online after this date.

For those aged 18 and over, you can find a pharmacy that offers NHS flu vaccination here.