About adult vaccinations
Here you will find some information on vaccines for older adults.
About adult vaccinations
Most vaccines are given in childhood, but eligible adults are offered three routine vaccines once they reach a certain age (the shingles, RSV and pneumococcal vaccines), plus seasonal flu and Covid-19 vaccines every year.
NHS have provided a summary of the routine vaccinations and seasonal vaccinations offered to adults including who is eligible and what diseases they protect you against.
How do I get a vaccination
For routine vaccinations, your GP surgery will usually contact you when you become eligible for the shingles, RSV or pneumococcal vaccine. This will usually be by letter, text message, phone or email.
For seasonal vaccines, the NHS will let you know in the autumn or winter, if you are eligible, if and when you can get your flu and/or COVID vaccinations. If eligible you can get your vaccination from your GP surgery, or local pharmacy that offers the flu vaccination.
Vaccination events are held in North East London to make it easier for people to get their vaccines. Click here for upcoming vaccination events for adults.
More information about adult vaccinations
As an adult, vaccinations tend to be focused on seasonal vaccines (if we’re eligible) and travel vaccinations. However, as we get older our immune system can become weaker and our risk of illness from infection can increase.
In order to protect older adults from serious illness the following vaccinations are recommended by the NHS:
- Flu
- Pneumococcal
- Shingles
- RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
- COVID-19
The vaccines are given based on your age or underlying health conditions. The table below summarises when each vaccination is advised.
Vaccine | When to get vaccinated | How often to get vaccinated |
|---|---|---|
Flu | 65 years old or older | Every year (from October) |
Pneumococcal | 65 years old or older | One vaccine |
Shingles | 65 years old 70-79 years old (if you turned 65 before 1 Sept 2023) Over 50 years old with weakened immune system | 2 vaccines with a 6-12 month gap between doses |
RSV | 75 years old | One vaccine |
COVID-19 | 65 years old or older | Every year (from October) |
If you have any questions about the vaccines your GP or pharmacist will be happy to help.
Contact your GP to book your vaccines. You might also receive a text message, phone call, or letter inviting you to book your vaccine when you become eligible.
Find out more information on the NHS website: