Why is it important to get a COVID-19 booster?

With the original dose, the immune system is primed to recognize and produce antibodies against the virus it was created to defend. Booster shots are administered to remind the body’s immune system about the virus it needs to defend against. This improves or gives the immune system a boost, especiallialy with the COVID-19 virus constantly changing.

This means that even if someone has had the vaccine before, their level of immunity is likely to be weaker than it was last year. Because of this, the NHS is encouraging individuals to top up their protection as soon as possible ahead of the winter months.

This vaccination is an important part of protecting yourself and your families from getting seriously ill from COVID-19.

The Coronavirus Pandemic

Millions of people have had a Covid vaccine since the pandemic started five years ago in 2019. It’s thought that the vaccines have saved countless lives around the world.

The majority of people in the UK have now had their first two jabs, and people are receiving boosters to keep their immune system in check.

The COVID-19 vaccine is very effective at preventing serious illness, hospitalization and in some cases, death.

Who is eligible for the private seasonal COVID-19 booster?

• Adults and children over 12 years old.
• Those who want immunisation but do not qualify for a free NHS vaccination.
• Those who qualifiy for a free NHS vaccination but prefer to have the vaccine privately.

Who is not eligible for the private seasonal COVID-19 booster?

• Children under 12 years of age.
• Those with hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.
• Those who have had a previous confirmed anaphylactic reaction to any component of the vaccine or residues from the manufacturing process.
• Those who have received a complete dose of the recommended Covid-19 vaccine for the current season.
• Those who are suffering from acute severe febrile illness (the presence of a minor infection is not a contraindication for immunisation).

Please note: Eligibility will be checked by the pharmacy before the vaccination is administered.

How to receieve the seasonal COVID-19 booster?

You can book an appointment for this seasonal service at your local Pharmacy+Health branch.

We may accept a limited number of ‘Walk-In Appointments’. Walk-ins may result in a long waiting time to be seen and do not always guarantee a same-day appointment.

What about the NHS COVID-19 booster?

You may be entitled to get the NHS seasonal COVID-19 booster this autumn on the NHS if you’re at increased risk from COVID-19 or depending on your age. If you are over 65, you are eligible for a free jab. Other eligiblity criterias are also included.