Getting a coronavirus vaccine

More than one vaccine has been approved for use in the UK. Each vaccine requires two doses to be fully effective. If you have already recevied your first vaccine you will be contacted within 12 weeks of this for your second dose. This is to ensure maximum protection from coronavirus. 

Every adult in the UK will be offered to coronavirud vaccine at some point. Whilst we do not yet know how long this process will take, please ensure that when it is your time to have your vaccine you will be contacted.

The initial priority groups are set out below, starting with those considered high priority:

1. Older adults that are a resident in a care home and their care workers.
2. Everyone aged 80+ and all health and social care workers.
3. Everyone aged 75+.
4. Everyone aged 70+ and all those considered clinically extremely vulnerable and have been shielding.
5. Everyone aged 65+.
6. Everyone aged 16-64 with an underlying health condition which puts them at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell.
7. Everyone 60+.
8. Everyone 55+.
9. Everyone 50+.

Age is a major risk factor for coronavirus, so the oldest age groups and older people living in care homes are a top priority.

The NHS will contact you and invite you to book an appointment when it's your turn to have your vaccine. You may be contact via text, email, letter or a phone call from your GP Practice. If your contact details have changed or you have recently moved house, it may be an good idea to contact your GP Practice and change these with them, so they are able to contact you for your vaccine. Don't worry if you have not yet been contacted yet, as different areas of the UK move at different speeds. As more vaccination centres open, more people will be able to get their vaccine quicker. 

Vaccinations will take place at one of the following places:

• At a hospital

• In the community - at your local GP or pharmacy

• In specially designed vaccination centres

When you attend your appointment, you'll be asked:

• How you are feeling and if you have any symptoms that would stop you from being able to have the vaccine.

• About your medical history.

• If you consent to having the vaccine.

• If you have any questions.

You'll need to bring:

• A face covering - unless your are medically exempt.

• Your booking reference number.

• Proof of your occupation if you are a health or care worker.

What to expect:

• All places offering vaccines will ahve social distancing and other measures in place to keep you and others safe.

• You will be given a leaflet telling you all about the vaccine you will be getting.

• You will be given a record card - keep this safe for your second dose.

Most side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine are mild and should not last longer than a week, such as:

• a sore arm where the needle went in

• feeling tired

• a headache

• feeling achy

• feeling or being sick

You can take painkillers, such as paracetamol, if you need to.

If you have a high temperature you may have coronavirus or another infection.

If your symptoms get worse or you are worried, call 111.