Eligible residents urged to get vaccinated against flu and Covid-19 this winter

15 October 2026

Residents across West Northamptonshire who are eligible for a free flu or Covid-19 vaccination are being encouraged to come forward and get protected ahead of winter.

The NHS autumn and winter vaccination programme launched on 1 October and aims to help protect those most at risk of becoming seriously unwell from flu and Covid-19 during the colder months.

People who are eligible for a free flu vaccination include:

• Adults aged 65 and over (including those turning 65 by 31 March 2027)
• People aged 18 to 64 with certain long-term health conditions
• Pregnant women
• Residents of older adult care homes
• Unpaid carers and those receiving a carer's allowance
• People living with someone who has a weakened immune system
• People experiencing homelessness
• Frontline health and social care workers

Those eligible for a Covid-19 vaccination include:

• Adults aged 75 and over (including those turning 75 by 31 January 2027)
• People aged six months to 74 years with a weakened immune system due to a health condition or treatment
• Residents of older adult care homes

Health leaders are encouraging everyone who is eligible to take up the offer of vaccination as soon as possible to help protect themselves, their families and the wider community.

Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council, said: "As we head into winter, it is important that those most at risk take up the opportunity to get vaccinated. Flu and Covid-19 can spread more easily during the colder months and can lead to serious illness for some people, particularly for those who are older, living with long-term health conditions, or have a weakened immune system.  

“Getting vaccinated helps protect not only yourself, but also your family, friends and the wider community. If anyone is unsure whether getting vaccinated is the right choice for them, please speak to a healthcare professional.  I would encourage everyone who is eligible to book their vaccination as soon as possible and play their part in keeping West Northamptonshire healthy this winter.”

Pregnant women are also being encouraged to take up the offer of vaccinations that can help protect both them and their babies, including whooping cough and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines where eligible.

David Johns, Director of Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council, said: "Vaccination continues to be one of the most effective ways we can prevent serious illness and help people stay well through the winter months. For older people, pregnant women, people living with long-term health conditions and others at greater risk, flu and Covid-19 can lead to significant complications. Taking up the offer of vaccination is a simple step that can help protect your health, maintain your independence and reduce the risk of passing infection on to those around you. I would encourage everyone who is eligible to take up the offer of these free vaccinations as early as possible to ensure they have the best protection in place for the winter season."

Dr Nil Sanganee, Chief Medical Officer for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland and Northamptonshire Integrated Care Boards, said: "We want to ensure that all eligible local people have the protection they need ahead of winter. Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways of protecting yourself against serious illness caused by flu and Covid-19 and helps reduce pressure on health services during the busiest time of year."

People do not need to wait for an invitation before booking an appointment. Vaccinations are available through GP practices, participating community pharmacies and local walk-in clinics.

To book an appointment, visit Book your vaccination.

To find a local walk-in clinic, visit Find a walk-in vaccination clinic.

Residents who are unsure whether they are eligible can check with their GP practice or visit NHS vaccination services.