As autumn approaches, many people begin preparing for the respiratory virus season. Influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and Covid can all circulate during the colder months, sometimes at the same time. A Covid vaccination may help reduce the risk of serious illness and is particularly worth considering for people whose age, health or circumstances place them at greater risk of complications.

The recommendations for the 2026–27 season will depend on guidance from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), the UK Health Security Agency and the NHS. Eligibility, timing and vaccine availability may change from one season to the next. If you are unsure whether vaccination is appropriate for you, a pharmacist or other qualified healthcare professional can assess your circumstances.

People who may benefit most

Covid vaccination is especially important for people more likely to become seriously unwell if they catch the virus. This commonly includes older adults, people living in a care home and those with certain long-term health conditions or weakened immune systems.

  • Older adults, particularly those within the age groups included in the seasonal NHS programme.
  • Residents of care homes for older adults.
  • People with conditions or treatments that weaken the immune system, such as some cancers, organ transplantation, certain immune disorders or medicines that suppress immunity.
  • People with significant long-term medical conditions, where vaccination is recommended under the current seasonal guidance.
  • Pregnant women, where vaccination is advised or offered under the relevant UK guidance.

The exact definition of “at higher risk” is not always straightforward. Two people with the same diagnosis may have different levels of risk depending on its severity, treatment and how well it is controlled. A pharmacist can help you check whether your circumstances fit the current recommendations or whether a private vaccination may be a suitable option.

Older adults and people in residential care

Age is an important risk factor for severe Covid. The immune system tends to respond less strongly with age, and older adults are more likely to have medical conditions that can make respiratory infections harder to manage. People living in care homes may also be more exposed to infections because they live in close contact with others.

If you are an older adult, or you are arranging care for a relative, it is sensible to check vaccination arrangements before the respiratory virus season becomes established. If an NHS vaccination is offered to you, you may receive it through an NHS service. A private pharmacy service may also be useful for people seeking an appointment, subject to clinical suitability, vaccine availability and the terms of the service.

People with weakened immunity

A weakened immune system can result from a health condition or from treatment. Examples may include chemotherapy, certain biological medicines, high-dose steroids, treatment following an organ transplant and some blood or immune disorders. In these situations, Covid may be more likely to cause serious illness, and the immune response to vaccination may be less predictable.

Your vaccination timing may need to take account of treatment dates or specialist advice. Do not stop or delay prescribed treatment in order to have a vaccination unless your specialist specifically advises you to do so. If you are receiving immunosuppressive treatment, bring relevant information about your condition and medicines to your appointment.

People with long-term health conditions

Some long-term conditions can increase the chance of complications from Covid. Depending on the current guidance, this may include certain heart, lung, kidney, liver or neurological conditions, diabetes and severe obesity. The level of risk depends on the individual, so having a condition on this list does not automatically mean that you will be eligible for every seasonal programme.

If you have asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, for example, your risk may be influenced by the severity of the condition and the treatment you use. People with poorly controlled or severe conditions should discuss vaccination with a healthcare professional, particularly if they have previously needed hospital care for a respiratory infection.

Pregnancy and Covid vaccination

Pregnancy can alter the immune system and place additional demands on the heart and lungs. Covid infection during pregnancy can be more serious than in someone who is not pregnant. Vaccination advice for pregnancy is based on the balance between the risks of infection and the benefits of vaccination, and may vary according to the season’s programme.

If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or recently gave birth, ask a midwife, GP or pharmacist for up-to-date advice. You should also mention any previous reaction to a vaccine and provide details of your pregnancy when booking or attending your appointment.

What about healthy adults and younger people?

Not everyone will be offered a seasonal Covid vaccination through the NHS. Healthy adults and younger people may still wish to discuss a private vaccination, especially if they regularly care for someone vulnerable, travel frequently, work in a setting with close contact with others or simply want to reduce their personal risk during the winter.

A private vaccination is not automatically suitable for everyone. A pharmacist will consider your age, health, previous doses, allergies, recent Covid infection and any relevant national guidance. The vaccine offered will depend on licensed products and availability at the time of your appointment.

When should you have the vaccine?

Seasonal Covid vaccinations are usually planned before or during the autumn and winter respiratory virus period, but the best timing depends on the official programme and your personal circumstances. If you are eligible through the NHS, follow the instructions provided by your NHS service. If you are considering a private appointment, booking early can help you plan ahead, although availability may vary.

If you have recently had Covid, you may be advised to wait for a period before vaccination. The appropriate interval can depend on your age, immune status and the current guidance. Tell the pharmacist when your symptoms started or when you received a positive test, if known.

Safety and suitability

Covid vaccines have been used extensively, but like all medicines they can cause side effects. Common effects may include a sore arm, tiredness, headache, muscle aches, mild fever or feeling generally unwell for a short time. These symptoms usually settle without treatment. A pharmacist can explain what to expect and what to do if you feel unwell afterwards.

Before vaccination, tell the pharmacist if you have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous Covid vaccine or one of its ingredients, if you are currently acutely unwell, or if you have experienced a serious reaction after another vaccine. A vaccination may need to be postponed or avoided in some circumstances. Seek urgent medical help for symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat or a widespread rapidly developing rash.

Preparing for the 2026–27 season

The most useful first step is to check the current UK recommendations as the season approaches. Consider your age, medical history, medicines, pregnancy status and whether you live with or care for someone vulnerable. Keep a record of previous Covid vaccinations and recent infections, and bring this information to your appointment where possible.

Vaccination complements, rather than replaces, sensible measures such as staying home when feverish, improving ventilation and seeking medical advice if symptoms are severe or worsening. It also does not provide complete protection against catching Covid, but it may reduce the risk of serious illness for people who are eligible and clinically suitable.

Book your Covid vaccination

If you would like to discuss your options before the 2026–27 respiratory virus season, speak to our pharmacy team. For an assessment and appointment, book your Covid vaccination at UNICARE Pharmacy.