The COVID-19 vaccine helps protect against COVID-19, which can be a serious or life-threatening illness for some people. It’s usually offered on the NHS in spring and early winter to people who need extra protection from COVID-19.
What the COVID-19 vaccine is for?
COVID-19 vaccination is an important part of protecting yourself if you’re at increased risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19.
The COVID-19 vaccines are offered because viruses change and protection fades over time. It’s important to top up your protection if you’re eligible.
Getting the COVID-19 vaccine can:
- help reduce your risk of getting severe symptoms
- help you recover more quickly if you catch COVID-19
- help reduce your risk of having to go to hospital or dying from COVID-19
- protect against different types of COVID-19 virus
Who should have the COVID-19 vaccine?
You may be offered a COVID-19 vaccine if you:
are aged 75 or over
are aged 6 months to 74 years and have a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment
live in a care home for older adults
