How do I get a COVID-19 vaccine?

The Winter COVID‑19 vaccine is available between 1 October 2025 and 31 January 2026. This programme focuses on protecting people who are at the highest risk of becoming seriously unwell from COVID‑19.

 

Who can get a COVID‑19 vaccine?

You can get the winter COVID‑19 vaccine if you are:

– Aged 75 or over (including those who will turn 75 by 31 January 2026)

– Living in a care home for older adults

– Aged 6 months to 74 years with a weakened immune system due to a health condition or treatment (for example: HIV, blood cancers, organ transplant, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, long‑term immunosuppressive treatment)

These groups follow the latest UKHSA and JCVI recommendations. If you are not eligible for an NHS COVID‑19 vaccine, you may still choose to pay privately for one.

 

How to get the COVID‑19 vaccine

1. Book online or through the NHS App

You can book an appointment online or using the NHS App if you are aged 5 or over. Online booking closes on 30 January 2026. The last date to get your vaccine is 31 January 2026.

 

2. Visit a walk‑in vaccination site

If you are eligible, you can get vaccinated without an appointment at walk‑in clinics across Birmingham and Solihull, including:

– Queen Elizabeth Hospital Vaccination Centre

– Solihull Hospital Vaccination Centre

– Mell Square Vaccination Van

– Community locations such as ASDA, Morrisons and Sainsbury’s

Some walk‑ins may offer flu vaccines at the same time for those who are eligible.

 

3. Local services

You may also be able to get your vaccine through:

– Your community pharmacy

– Your GP practice

– Your care home (if you live in one)

You do not need to wait for an invitation to book or attend a clinic.

 

Why getting vaccinated matters

COVID‑19 continues to pose a higher risk to older people and those with weakened immune systems. Being vaccinated can help:

– Reduce your risk of developing severe symptoms

– Support quicker recovery if you do catch COVID‑19

– Lower the chance of hospital admission or death

– Maintain your level of protection as immunity fades over time

 

Find out more

For full details, visit the NHS COVID‑19 vaccine page: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/covid-19-vaccine/

For information about local vaccination services in Birmingham and Solihull: https://www.birminghamandsolihullvaccination.nhs.uk/walk-in/