Frequently asked questions

ELIGIBILITY

Who qualifies for an autumn 2023 COVID-19 booster vaccination?

Seasonal COVID-19 vaccines are offered to those at increased risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19 – this may be due to a health condition or age. Those eligible for an autumn Covid vaccine are:

• residents in a care home for older adults
• all adults aged 65 years and over
• persons aged 6 months to 64 years in a clinical risk group, as laid out in the Immunisation Green Book, COVID-19 chapter (Green Book)
• pregnant women
• frontline health and social care workers
• persons aged 12 to 64 years who are household contacts (as defined in the Green Book) of people with immunosuppression
• persons aged 16 to 64 years who are carers (as defined in the Green Book) and staff working in care homes for older adults.

Which health conditions make me eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination?

The COVID-19 vaccine is offered to those with a serious health condition. Those that can get the COVID-19 vaccine due to a health condition are broadly similar to those that can get a flu vaccine including:

• respiratory conditions, ie poorly controlled asthma, chronic pulmonary disease, including emphysema and bronchitis, cystic fibrosis
• diabetes
• heart conditions such as coronary heart disease or heart failure
• being very overweight – a BMI of 40 or above
• chronic kidney disease
• liver disease, such as hepatitis
• neurological conditions, ie Parkinson’s disease, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis (MS) or cerebral palsy
• a learning disability
• those with a severe mental illness
• problems with your spleen, eg sickle cell
• a weakened immune system as the result of conditions ie HIV and AIDs or taking steroids or chemotherapy

A full list of clinical risk groups is included in tables 3 and 4 in Chapter 14a of the Green Book.

How is it decided who is eligible to get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines for free on the NHS each year?

The flu and COVID-19 vaccine programmes aim to reduce the number of people that get seriously ill and reduce the spread of the viruses. The government decide which groups will be eligible for free vaccines on the NHS. Their decision is based on the independent advice of clinical experts in the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) who review the latest clinical evidence and data.

Is there anyone that shouldn’t get the vaccines?

Almost everybody can have the vaccines, but you should not be vaccinated if you have ever had a serious allergy (eg. anaphylaxis) to any of the flu or COVID-19 vaccines, or any of their ingredients – you should discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist.

Is there an alternative vaccine available for people with allergies?

Most allergies are compatible with having a COVID vaccination and can be discussed at your appointment. If you have a severe allergy to a COVID vaccine or a component of a COVID vaccine this should be discussed with your GP.

I am housebound, how do I receive my booster vaccination?

In the first instance you should contact your GP practice and check that you’re registered with them as being housebound. Patients who are registered as housebound with their GP practice will be contacted directly when their COVID-19 booster is due to arrange a visit from a vaccination team.

I am housebound and my GP surgery is not delivering Covid booster vaccinations. How will I get mine?

Patients who are registered as housebound with their GP practice will be contacted when their COVID booster is due to arrange a visit from a vaccination team. If your GP practice is not delivering vaccinations your details will have been passed to our team at Dorset HealthCare who will contact you to arrange a house visit.

GETTING YOUR VACCINES

How will I be invited if I am eligible for a booster?

You may be invited to get your winter vaccines by the NHS nationally or your GP practice through a letter, text or email. Don’t worry if you do not receive this. If you are eligible, you do not have to wait for this before booking an appointment. If you receive an invite from the NHS and have already been vaccinated do not worry, sometimes there is a delay in the information flowing through and you do not need to do anything.

How long are the autumn booster clinics open for?

The autumn programme is running from September - December. There are plenty of appointments for everyone eligible. 

Can I have the flu and COVID-19 vaccines together?

The JCVI has advised that, for most people, it is fine to have the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time. Where possible, we encourage you to get both vaccines in the same appointment to ensure you are protected against both viruses.

Can I get the flu and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time whilst pregnant?

It’s safe to receive the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time. You may be offered them at the same time or you may be offered, or to decide to have them, separately. Where possible, we encourage you to get both vaccines in the same appointment to save you time and ensure you are protected against both viruses. If this is not possible, we encourage you to get each vaccine as soon as you can, rather than waiting to get both at the same time. If you receive both vaccines in one appointment but originally booked two, please do cancel the other appointment so that it becomes available for someone else.

Will the COVID-19 vaccine affect current medication

Most medications do not interact with the COVID-19 vaccine. Let your vaccinator know if you are taking any medications that suppress your immune system, or are on steroids or antibiotics, as this will help us decide the best time for you to get your vaccine.

Why might my child need the seasonal COVID-19 vaccine?

The seasonal COVID-19 vaccine is offered to protect those most at risk of serious illness from the virus. Children aged 5 years and over with certain health conditions, those aged 12 and over that are household contacts of people with immunosuppression and carers aged 16 and over will be able to get the seasonal COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 vaccinations for children aged 6 months to 4 years are managed at a local level. Children under 12 years old will be given smaller doses than older children and adults.

I’ve only just had my first or second COVID-19 vaccine, can I have the autumn booster jab?

No, the JCVI advises that the booster vaccine should be offered no earlier than three months after completion of the primary vaccine course.

I haven’t yet had the COVID-19 vaccination, can I still get my first jabs?

People who have not yet had their first Covid jab should be offered a single vaccine dose as their primary course.  Eligibility for a first Covid vaccine is the same as the autumn 2023 booster.  This is available at most sites.

Why is my recent COVID vaccination not showing on my NHS COVID pass?

The NHS COVID pass closes on 4 December 2023, as vaccination status no longer needs to be demonstrated domestically or for international travel and the pass is no longer needed. Most patients can see this information in their GP health record on the NHS App within the 'Check Your Covid-19 Vaccine Record' section within the 'Your Health' icon. The NHS App continues to provide a simple and secure way for people to access a range of NHS services. Please be aware that travel restrictions and requirements can change, you should stay up to date with the latest information from the relevant authorities when planning your international travel. More information relating to entry requirements can be obtained from the Foreign Office Travel Advice website - Foreign travel advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

ABOUT THE VACCINE

What type of COVID-19 vaccine will I be given?

There are several different COVID-19 vaccines in use in the UK. They have all met strict standards of safety, quality and effectiveness. Most people can have any of the COVID-19 vaccines and will be offered a vaccine that gives protection from more than one type of COVID-19. You cannot choose which vaccine you have.

Some people are only offered certain vaccines, for example:

• if you're pregnant
• if you're under 18 years old
• if you're 75 years old or over
• in very rare cases if you’ve had a severe allergic reaction to one of the common vaccines you may be referred to a specialist clinic for an alternative COVID-19 vaccine.

Why do I keep needing to have ‘booster’ doses of the COVID-19 vaccine?

The COVID-19 vaccine is given to top up the protection in those at higher risk from severe COVID-19 illness to help prevent people being hospitalised or dying from COVID-19 over winter 2023/24. During the pandemic, COVID-19 disproportionately affected those in older age groups, residents in care homes for older adults, and those with certain underlying health conditions, particularly those who are severely immunosuppressed which is why we vaccinate them regularly to ‘top up’ their protection.

Are there any side effects from the vaccines?

Flu and COVID-19 vaccines have a good safety record. All adult flu and COVID-19 vaccines are given by injection into the muscle of the upper arm.

Most side effects are mild and only last for a day or so, such as:

• having a painful, heavy feeling and tenderness in the arm where you had your injection. This tends to be worst around a day or two following the vaccination
• feeling tired
• headache
• general aches, or mild flu like symptoms.

Try these tips to help reduce the discomfort:

• rest
• continue to move your arm regularly
• take a painkiller, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen – some people, including those who are pregnant, should not take ibuprofen unless a doctor recommends it.

Symptoms following vaccination normally last less than a week. If you experience a high temperature, if your symptoms seem to get worse or if you are concerned, you can call NHS 111.

Can I have the vaccine if I feel unwell?

If you are unwell, wait until you have recovered to have your vaccine. You should not attend an appointment if you have a fever or think you might be infectious to others.

Should I get the vaccines if I think I have already had flu or COVID-19?

If you think you’ve already had flu or COVID-19, once you’ve recovered you should still get the vaccines as they will still help protect you.

Do I need to receive the same type of vaccine or booster as my previous ones?

No, all COVID-19 vaccines authorised for use by the NHS are effective and provide a strong booster response. When you attend your appointment, the NHS will offer you a safe, effective vaccine.

I’ve recently had, or currently have COVID-19 or symptoms of COVID-19. Am I still able to receive a vaccine?

You still need to get a booster dose of the vaccine for extra protection, even if you have recently recovered from COVID-19. If you have COVID-19, or think you might, please wait until you’ve recovered before getting vaccinated. You should also wait if you have a fever or feel particularly unwell with any illness. If you have recently recovered from COVID-19, there is no need to delay getting vaccinated.

If you're pregnant you're at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu and COVID-19. 

Getting your winter vaccines is the safest and most effective way for women to protect themselves and their baby against COVID-19 and it also reduces the risk of having a stillbirth. The antibodies your body produces in response to the vaccine can also give your baby protection against flu and COVID-19 which lasts for the first few months of their lives.

It's safe to have the flu and COVID-19 vaccine during any stage of pregnancy, from the first few weeks up to your expected due date. It's also safe for women who are breastfeeding to have the vaccines. There's no evidence flu and COVID-19 vaccination increases the risk of having a miscarriage, pre-term birth or other complications in your pregnancy. It's strongly recommended that you get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 ahead of winter to protect you and your baby.

What COVID-19 vaccine will my child receive?

Comirnaty 10 (XBB.1.5)

Should I get the seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines whilst I’m pregnant?

If you're pregnant you're at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu and COVID-19.

There is good evidence that pregnant women have a higher chance of developing complications if they get flu or COVID.

If you have flu or COVID-19 while you're pregnant, it could cause your baby to be born prematurely or have a low birthweight, it increases the need for admission to intensive care for mum and baby and may even lead to further complications. If you get flu and COVID-19 at the same time, the symptoms are likely to be more serious.

Is it safe to get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy?

Getting your winter vaccines is the safest and most effective way for women to protect themselves and their baby against flu and COVID-19, and it also reduces the risk of having a stillbirth. The antibodies your body produces in response to the vaccine can also give your baby protection against flu and COVID-19 which lasts for the first few months of their lives.

It's safe to have the flu and COVID-19 vaccines during any stage of pregnancy, from the first few weeks up to your expected due date. It's also safe for women who are breastfeeding to have the vaccines.

We recommend getting these vaccines as soon as you can.

Can I get the flu and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time whilst pregnant?

It’s safe to receive the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time. You may be offered them at the same time but you can have them separately.

Where possible, we encourage you to get both vaccines in the same appointment to save you time and ensure you are protected against both viruses. If this is not possible, we encourage you to get each vaccine as soon as you can, rather than waiting to get both at the same time. If you receive both vaccines in one appointment but originally booked two, please do cancel the other appointment so that it becomes available for someone else.

Can I have the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time as the whooping cough (pertussis) vaccine?

Yes, you can have the vaccines at the same time as the whooping cough vaccine (pertussis vaccine), but do not delay your winter vaccines so you can have all of the vaccines at the same time. Pregnant women are at risk of severe illness from flu and COVID-19 at any stage of pregnancy, so you need to have the vaccines as soon as possible.

The best time to get vaccinated against whooping cough is from 16 weeks up to 32 weeks of pregnancy. If you miss having the vaccine for any reason, you can still have it up until you go into labour.

What winter vaccines will I receive whilst pregnant?

You will be offered a vaccine that is suitable for you. If you have any questions, you can discuss these with your GP practice or maternity team.

When can I receive the flu and COVID-19 vaccines?

You can get both vaccinations now. The COVID-19 vaccine is available up until 15 December; there may be opportunities to have the vaccine after this date, but we would encourage you to book during this time if possible. The flu vaccine is available up until the end of March if you find out that you are pregnant later in the flu season.

How can I book my pregnancy vaccines?

If you are pregnant, you may be offered your flu, COVID-19 and pertussis (whooping cough) vaccination appointments by a GP practice, maternity or other local NHS service.

You can book the COVID-19 vaccine and flu vaccinations now through your GP practice or local pharmacy.

For the COVID-19 vaccine, you can book this online at www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination (where, from October, you may be asked if you want a flu vaccination at the same appointment) or via the NHS App.

For the flu vaccine, you can book to get your vaccine at your GP practice or community pharmacy. You can find your nearest pharmacy offering the vaccine at www.nhs.uk/flu-pharmacy.

In some areas, midwives can give the flu vaccine at the antenatal clinic. It's a good idea to get vaccinated against flu as soon as possible after the vaccine becomes available. Do not worry if you find that you’re pregnant later in the flu season – you can have the vaccine up until March if you have not already had it. 

For further guidance on getting your flu, COVID-19 and pertussis (whooping cough) vaccinations in your area, speak with your local maternity service and visit Vaccinations in pregnancy - NHS (www.nhs.uk).

Who is eligible for a 1st and 2nd dose?

People who have not yet had their first Covid jab should be offered a single vaccine dose as their primary course.  Eligibility for a first Covid vaccine is the same as the autumn 2023 booster.  This is available at most sites.

GETTING YOUR VACCINE

How do I book my vaccine?

The National Booking Service is now live and eligible people can book an appointment at available times at a local clinic near them via the website or through the NHS app. If people prefer not to book online, they can call 119 where a team can assist with booking appointments.

What should I bring with me?

It is helpful to bring with you :

• your booking confirmation if you have a booked appointment - this may be a letter, an email or a note you have made of the booking reference
• your NHS number
• a note of any regular medication you take
• proof of eligibility and photo ID.

I can no longer attend my vaccination appointment, what should I do?

To cancel or rearrange your appointment if you have booked through the National Booking Service this can be done via the ‘Manage my appointments function’ on the website or by calling 119. If you have booked with your GP practice directly, please call them or follow the information they have provided you with.

Can I arrive at a clinic for my vaccination without a booking?

Currently most sites are accepting bookings only in Dorset. If this changes, we will keep our webpages and social media updated. 

I am a migrant and I have moved to England. Can I get a COVID-19 vaccination?

We encourage you to register with a GP practice in England, however this is not essential to get a COVID-19 vaccination. Anyone in England can register with a GP and you do not need proof of identity or of immigration status. This information will not be passed on to the Home Office.

Can I have my vaccination early for a non-clinical reason e.g. holiday, family, work commitments?

If you’re eligible to be vaccinated sooner, we can check when the next available appointments are and try to book one for you now. Otherwise, we are unable to accommodate earlier appointments for travel purposes or personal reasons. Doses must be given at the correct intervals in line with Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation JCVI guidance. If you think you may need to have it early for medical reasons, consult your GP or hospital specialist.

I need support in getting to my vaccination appointment, what can I do?

Patients who do not have access to transport can get help to attend their appointment via community transport services. For more information please visit:
BCP Council area – Transport help with getting to your COVID-19 vaccination
Dorset Council area – Community transport directory

MORE ABOUT THE VACCINE

Are the vaccines safe?

The flu and COVID-19 vaccines have a good safety record, and their side effects are generally mild and do not last for more than a few days. Your safety will always come first and there are rigorous safety standards that have to be met through the approval process. 

As with any medicine, vaccines are highly regulated products. There are checks at every stage in the development and manufacturing process. Each of the vaccines are tested on tens of thousands of people across the world. They are tested on both men and women, on people from different ethnic backgrounds, and of all age groups.

Like any other vaccine or medicine, the flu and COVID-19 vaccines are being continuously monitored for safety – the effected benefits of the vaccines far outweigh risk in the majority of patients. 

How do vaccines work?

Vaccines teach your immune system how to create antibodies that protect you from diseases. It's usually much safer for your immune system to learn this through vaccination than by catching the diseases and treating them. Once your immune system knows how to fight a disease, it can often protect you..

What does ‘at risk’ and ‘immunosuppressed’ mean?

People who are ‘at risk’ are those who more likely to get serious illness or complications if they catch COVID-19. This includes people with certain underlying chronic health conditions and those who are pregnant. If you are in one of these groups it’s really important to get your COVID-19 vaccine when offered.

People who are ‘immunosuppressed’ are at the greatest risk from COVID-19 as their immune systems are not working normally. This includes people on chemotherapy, strong immunosuppressant medications, high doses of steroids or those with a medical condition affecting their immune system. If you are in one of these groups it’s essential to get your COVID-19 vaccine.

If you aren’t sure if you which group you are in, come in and have a confidential discussion with one of the team.

OTHER

Who is eligible for the flu vaccination?

In line with advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), those eligible for a flu vaccine this year include: 

those aged 65 years and over, those aged 6 months to under 65 years in clinical risk groups (as defined by the Green Book, chapter 19 (Influenza), pregnant women all children aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2023, 5.    school-aged children (from Reception to Year 11),  those in long-stay residential care homes, carers in receipt of carer’s allowance, or those who are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person, close contacts of immunocompromised individuals, frontline workers in a social care setting without an employer led occupational health scheme including those working for a registered residential care or nursing home, registered domiciliary care providers, voluntary managed hospice providers and those that are employed by those who receive direct payments (personal budgets) or Personal Health budgets, such as Personal Assistants. 

How do I contact someone from the Dorset Vaccination Service?

For queries regarding appointments at your local GP or pharmacy offer the vaccine - please contact directly. 

For queries regarding appointments at one of our vaccination centres, please email dhc.covidplus@nhs.net 

Teams may not be able to respond straight away, but aim to answer your query as soon as they can. Sometimes we may need to ask for more information from you before we can resolve your query.

You can also pop into a vaccination centre with evidence of your medical records/prescription to discuss you eligibility with one of the clinicians on site.