Winter vaccinations

Vaccinations can help protect against serious illnesses that are more common in the winter. The NHS offers vaccines to those who are more likely to become seriously ill.

Getting vaccines offered by the NHS helps keep you and your loved ones safe. The vaccines reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalisation, and passing an illness on to others. 

Influenza and Covid-19 vaccinations

If you are eligible for the influenza (flu) or COVID-19 vaccines, it is important to top up your protection with a dose every year before winter.

• Adults can check their eligibility for flu and COVID-19 vaccines, and can book an appointment through the NHS website.
• Children aged 2 or 3 can get their flu vaccine at their GP surgery.
• Children from Reception to Year 11 are offered the flu vaccine at school. If your child missed the vaccination team’s visit, is home educated, or you have other concerns such as the porcine gelatine content in the nasal spray flu vaccine for children, contact the Berkshire School-aged Immunisation Team to make arrangements.

RSV vaccination

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of coughs and colds during winter. It can cause a serious lung infection (pneumonia) in babies and older adults.

The NHS rolled out the RSV vaccination programme in September 2024. You only need this once to help keep you protected. This is offered to:

• Older adults aged 75-79 years old
• Pregnant women (from 28 weeks) to protect their baby