Winter vaccinations

Respiratory infections

Many respiratory illnesses circulate during winter, such as the common cold, influenza (flu),  Covid-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The infections can be unpleasant for some, but can also cause serious illness and death for those at higher risk.

There are actions that we can all take to help reduce the risk of catching respiratory illnesses and passing it on to others.

Getting vaccines offered by the NHS also helps keep you and your loved ones safe by reducing your risk of serious illness, hospitalisation and passing an illness on to others. 

Flu and Covid-19 vaccinations

It is important to top up your protection from flu and Covid-19 with one dose of the vaccine before autumn/winter each year.

• Adults can check their eligibility for flu and Covid-19 vaccines, and can make booking appointments on the NHS website.
• Parents of children aged 2 or 3 should contact their GP surgery to book their child’s flu vaccination.
• School-aged children (from Reception to Year 11) will be offered flu vaccinations at school. If your child has missed the vaccination team at school, or require other arrangements (such as if your child is home educated, or you have concerns about the porcine gelatine content in the nasal spray flu vaccine for children), contact the Berkshire School-aged Immunisation Team.

RSV vaccination

The NHS began to roll out the RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccination programme in September 2024. You only need this once to help keep you protected. This is offered to:

• Older adults aged 75-79 years old
• Pregnant women (from 28 weeks) to protect their baby