Licensed from 6 months. Free on the NHS each season for over-75s, care home residents and people with a weakened immune system; available privately to most others.
Last reviewed 12 September 2026UK Green Book ch. 14aNon-live vaccine
Who can have it
Eligibility by age, on the NHS and privately
COVID-19 boosters are offered in spring and autumn campaigns. NHS eligibility is set by the JCVI each season and is now focused on the people most at risk of serious illness. If you are not in an NHS group you can pay for the vaccine privately at many pharmacies.
Check what applies to you
Pick your age range and gender to see only the criteria for your group. Nothing you select is saved or sent anywhere.
Age
Privately (pharmacy or clinic)
On the NHS
Under 2 years
PrivatelyRestrictions apply
Licensed from 6 months but rarely offered privately under 12
On the NHSFree for some
Free from 6 months if your child has a weakened immune system.
2 to 17 years
PrivatelyRestrictions apply
Private vaccination usually from age 12
On the NHSFree for some
Free if your child has a weakened immune system. Healthy children are not routinely offered it on the NHS.
18 to 49 years
Privately✓Available
Available at many pharmacies
On the NHSFree for some
Free if you have a weakened immune system (for example due to chemotherapy, transplant or certain medicines). Otherwise pay privately.
50 to 64 years
Privately✓Available
Available at many pharmacies
On the NHSFree for some
Free if you have a weakened immune system or live in a care home for older adults. Otherwise pay privately.
65 and over
Privately✓Available
Available at many pharmacies
On the NHSFree for some
Free from age 75 in each seasonal campaign (including anyone who turns 75 by 31 January 2027), and for care home residents and anyone with a weakened immune system. Those aged 65 to 74 without a qualifying condition currently pay privately. NHS groups can change each season.
Latest figures
How much COVID-19 is about right now
Live from official surveillance. Refreshed every few hours.
7.2%
→ Steady
COVID-19 tests coming back positive (7-day average)
Sources: UKHSA data dashboard.Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.Figures describe disease activity and vaccine uptake, not your eligibility.
Recommended for
Adults aged 75 and over
Residents in care homes for older adults
Anyone aged 6 months and over with a weakened immune system
Anyone else who wants seasonal protection (privately)
Who should not have it
A previous serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a COVID-19 vaccine or to polyethylene glycol (PEG)
If you are unwell with a fever, vaccination is usually postponed
If you have recently had COVID-19, a clinician may advise waiting a few weeks
Always tell the clinician about allergies, medicines, health conditions and recent vaccines. They will confirm the vaccine is right for you before giving it.
About the vaccine
What it protects against, how long it lasts and side effects
🛡️
Protects against
COVID-19 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which can cause severe respiratory illness, hospitalisation, and long-term complications.
📅
When to have it
At any time; boosters typically offered in spring and autumn
⏳
How long it lasts
6–12 months against severe disease — updated boosters recommended as new variants emerge
💉
Doses
Single dose
🩹
Side effects
Sore arm, fatigue, headache, mild fever, or chills for 1–2 days. Serious side effects are rare.
💡
Good to know
Multiple approved vaccines are available. The specific product offered may vary by clinic and current NHS guidance.
Common questions
COVID-19 vaccine: your questions answered
Can I pay for a COVID-19 vaccine if I am not eligible on the NHS?
Yes. Private COVID-19 vaccination is available at many high-street pharmacies for people aged 12 and over. Compare prices and book through VaxiGo.
How often do I need a COVID-19 booster?
NHS boosters are offered in spring and autumn to eligible groups. Protection against severe disease lasts around 6 to 12 months, so a yearly autumn dose is typical for most people who choose to have one.
Which COVID-19 vaccine will I get?
Clinics use the current season's updated vaccine, matched to recent variants. The exact product can vary by clinic and by NHS supply.
Can I have it at the same time as my flu jab?
Yes. The two are commonly given together in one appointment.
Ready to book?
Compare COVID-19 prices near you
GPhC-registered pharmacies and travel clinics. The clinician confirms suitability at your appointment.
General information only. This page sets out the published UK eligibility criteria so you can see which apply to you. It is not medical advice and VaxiGo does not assess your suitability for any vaccine. The clinician at your appointment makes that decision with you.