Seasonal vaccine
COVID-19 Vaccine
COVID-19 vaccines protect against serious illness from coronavirus. Booster doses are offered to those at higher risk, particularly older adults and people with certain conditions.
What it protects against
It reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation and death from COVID-19, and lowers the chance of serious disease even when infection still occurs.
Who it's for
Eligibility changes over time; boosters are typically offered to older adults, people with certain health conditions, and health and care workers, as advised by the UK vaccination programme.
How it works
The vaccine teaches the immune system to recognise part of the coronavirus, so it can respond quickly on exposure. Immunity wanes over time and against new variants, which is why boosters are offered.
Safety
Safety and side effects
COVID-19 vaccines have been given to billions of people and are closely monitored. Side effects are usually mild and short-lived, such as a sore arm, tiredness or a mild temperature.
Education and reference only. This is general information, not a personal recommendation, and does not list doses — follow the current NHS schedule and your clinician's advice. Seek urgent help for signs of a serious allergic reaction after any vaccine.
Answers
COVID-19 Vaccine: frequently asked questions
Why are COVID booster doses needed?
Protection from earlier doses fades over time and against new variants, so boosters top up immunity for those most at risk of serious illness.
Related
Other seasonal vaccines
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Vaccinations
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) — the Green Book
- WHO — immunization
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