COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a virus. Most people who catch the virus will have mild symptoms and recover at home. However, some people - especially older adults and those who are immunosuppressed - are at risk of becoming seriously ill.
Spring 2026
The following groups are eligible for a free NHS COVID-19 vaccination this Spring from 13 April 2026 - 30 June 2026:
- residents in a care home for older adults
- all adults aged 75 years and over
- people aged 6 months and over who are immunosuppressed (as defined in the ‘immunosuppression’ section of tables 3 and 4 of the COVID-19 chapter of the Green Book.
You should be contacted by the NHS if you're eligible for an NHS COVID-19 vaccination this Spring 2026 campaign.
Booking a vaccination
If eligible, you can book an appointment using the National Booking System (NBS) from 07 April 2026.
Walk in services
Many of our COVID-19 vaccination sites offer walk-in appointments. You can find a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination site here.
I want to know more about the vaccine
Why do some people need a booster in spring and autumn?
Viruses change and the protection the vaccine gives fades over time. For those who are more likely to become seriously ill from COVID-19, the NHS offers a free vaccine in both winter AND spring to top up protection throughout the year.
I am worried about the side-effects of the vaccine.
COVID-19 vaccines currently being used in the UK have gone through a rigorous process to ensure they are safe and effective. It is normal for some patients to experience mild side-effects such as pain at the injection site, feeling tired, headache, aches and chills. If required, you can treat these symptoms with painkillers, such as paracetamol (always follow the dosing instructions in the packaging).
Can I trust the vaccine?
The COVID-19 vaccines have had to meet all of the expected clinical safety tests and follow rigorous steps throughout the vaccine development process. All the vaccines licensed within the UK have passed strict approval processes.
NHS England has produced a short video explaining what is in the vaccine and how it works to offer you protection against the virus.
Does catching COVID19 give you better immunity than the vaccine?
No – the vaccine provides the best possible protection for you and your family against the virus. It also reduces the risk of developing ‘Long Covid’ symptoms.
If COVID-19 is going away, do I need the vaccine?
Yes – COVID-19 is still infecting lots of people. It is still really important to get your seasonal vaccinations and keep them up-to-date.
Is the vaccine available/right for me?
I'm pregnant, is the vaccine safe for me and my baby?
Yes, getting your COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to protect you and your baby from the virus, and significantly reduces your risk of getting critically ill if you do get COVID-19.
There is no evidence to suggest that the COVID-19 vaccines used in England are unsafe for those who are pregnant, or that the vaccine will cause any problems for those planning to get pregnant in future.
Can people who practice their religion get vaccinated?
COVID-19 vaccination has been supported by many faith bodies; Churches, Imams, Rabbis and scholars of other faith have advised people to get vaccinated. The COVID-19 vaccines used in England do not contain any animal products, and the amount of ethanol (a type of alcohol) used is less than what you would find in bread.
Can I get vaccinated against COVID-19 if I don't have a GP or ID?
Yes, the NHS wants to help protect everyone against the virus so the vaccine is free to everyone who is eligible. You do not need proof of address, ID or an NHS number, and your details will not be shared for immigration purposes.
I have had COVID-19, should I get vaccinated?
Yes – we do not know how long immunity acquired by the infection lasts and it reduces over time. Vaccination provides a safe and effective boost to your immunity.
More information can be found at COVID-19 vaccination - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Most people with COVID-19 feel better within a few days or weeks of their first symptoms and make a full recovery within 12 weeks. For some people, symptoms can last longer. This is called long COVID or post COVID-19 syndrome. Long COVID is a new condition which is still being studied.
If you have had symptoms of Covid-19 for four weeks or more you should contact your GP. For urgent problems, use NHS111.
More information on symptoms, tests, recovery and support is avaiable on the NHS website.