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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Every effort is being made to ensure that this information as up to-date as possible.  The main source of information on the Covid-19 vaccination programme is on the NHS website.  

Got a question, but can’t find the answer? Ask us.
Spring Boosters

Who is eligible for a spring booster?

Spring boosters are being offered to people aged 75 years and over, people living in care homes and people aged 12 and over who have a weakened immune system.

Why do these people need another booster?

COVID-19 is more serious in older people and those with a weakened immune system. Their protection from the vaccine may also be lower and decline more quickly, and most will have had their first booster around 6 months ago. They are therefore being offered a spring booster as a precaution so that if the number of infections increases, it will help to reduce their risk of becoming seriously ill with COVID-19 or needing to be admitted to hospital.

When do these people need to have their spring booster?

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation has advised that eligible people should have their spring booster around six months after their last dose for maximum effectiveness. People will be invited by the NHS when it is their turn – this will start from 21 March and continue until the early summer.

How do I get my spring booster?

The NHS will contact you when it is your turn. This is likely to be by a letter or text from the National Booking Service, inviting you to make an appointment at a vaccination centre of your choice. You might also be contacted by your GP practice and offered an appointment but not all GP services are offering boosters so please only contact your GP about a spring booster if you receive an invitation. 

If you haven’t had your previous booster, you can visit www.nhs.uk/covid-booster  to find your nearest walk in option or book an appointment. You can also call 119 free of charge, which also offers translators on request.

Can I go to a walk-in clinic for my spring booster?

We are asking people to wait until they are invited by the NHS and to book an appointment. This is because the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation has advised that people should wait until around six months since their last dose for maximum effectiveness so we are prioritising people according to when they had their previous booster.

Which vaccine will I be given?

As for the previous booster, you will be given either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. These have been shown to be the most effective vaccines for booster doses, no matter which vaccine you had before, and you do not need to have the same vaccine as you had for your previous booster.

I am eligible for a spring booster, but have recently had COVID-19 so do I still need it?

Yes. You still need to get a booster dose of the vaccine for extra protection, even if you have recently recovered from COVID-19. The vaccine gives people greater and longer-lasting protection than the antibodies you develop from having the virus. If you have recently recovered from the virus, you will need to wait 4 weeks (28 days) before getting your spring booster.

Why do I need a spring booster now that restrictions have been lifted?

The vaccines have enabled the removal of restrictions on everyday life but COVID-19 is still active and there are still people in hospital unwell with the virus. Getting your booster will make sure you get the best possible protection against the virus and keep yourself and others safe.

Will I get side-effects from a booster dose?

You may experience some mild side effects from the booster dose, regardless of how you reacted to previous COVID-19 vaccines. Side effects are very mild, do not last for very long and not everybody will get them. Side effects can include a sore arm, feeling tired, a headache, feeling achy, and feeling or being sick. If you do get these, a pain killer such as paracetamol is recommended.

Will I be expected to get more doses of the COVID vaccine in the future ?

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) is continuing to monitor all available data and evidence to determine how often vaccinations will be needed by different groups. The NHS is preparing to deliver an autumn dose of the vaccine but what is required and who will be eligible for it will depend on future recommendations from the JCVI.

Can I still get a first or second dose if I’ve not yet done so?

It’s never too late to come forward for your first or second dose and you do not need to be registered with a GP.  You can search for a local walk-in clinic or book an appointment at www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccine  or by calling 119.

Can I get the spring booster if I am not in one of the eligible groups?

No, these are only being offered to the groups that have been recommended by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation because they are at particular risk from COVID-19. It is not possible to get a vaccine for any non-health related reasons, such as travel requirements.

More information

Download: A guide to the spring booster for those aged 75 years and older residents in care homes

Who can get the COVID-19 vaccine?

Who can get the COVID-19 vaccination?

Everyone aged 12 and over, and some children aged 5 to 11, can get a 1st and 2nd dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

People aged 16 and over, and some children aged 12 to 15, can also get a booster dose.

People aged 12 and over who had a severely weakened immune system when they had their first 2 doses, will be offered a 3rd dose and a booster (4th dose).

People aged 75 and over, people who live in care homes for older people, and people aged 12 and over who have a weakened immune system, will be offered a spring booster.

Find out more about who can get the vaccine.

How can I get a vaccination?

If you are aged 12 or over, you can book an appointment directly via the national booking service or use a walk in service. Not all walk-in sites can vaccinate 12 – 15 year olds.

Find a walk-in service near you.

If you cannot book appointments online, you can call 119 free of charge. You can speak to a translator if you need to.

If you have difficulties communicating or hearing, or are a British Sign Language (BSL) user, you can use textphone 18001 119 or the NHS 119 BSL interpreter service.

How will I get my second vaccination?

You will be given your second vaccination 8 -12 weeks after your first one.

If you book online via the national booking service, you’ll be able to make appointments for both doses. You can also manage, view or rebook your COVID-19 vaccination appointments on the NHS website.

If you had your first dose through your GP surgery, you’ll be contacted when it’s time to book your second dose.

If you attended a walk-in service for your first vaccination, you can book your second dose through the NHS website. If you need help with a booking, call 119. 

You can also attend a walk-in service for your second dose. Please make sure the walk-in clinic is offering the same vaccination type as your first.

Why are some people being offered a third dose of the vaccine?

The JCVI has recommended that people who were severely immunosuppressed at the time of their first or second Covid-19 vaccination should be offered a third dose. This is an extra ‘top-up’ dose in response to evidence showing that they may not have responded as well to the vaccine as others and will therefore have lower levels of protection against Covid-19. It includes people with leukaemia and advanced HIV and people who have had recent organ transplants.

When will people who are severely immunosuppressed be offered their third dose?

Consultants have been asked to identify eligible patients and recommend when the best time would be for them to have their third dose. Patients are being contacted either by their consultant or GP to arrange their vaccination.

I’m housebound, how will I get my vaccination?

Your GP practice will make arrangements for you to have your vaccination at home and contact you when it is your turn.

Can I get the vaccine privately?

No. Vaccinations are only available through the NHS, free of charge.

Can people get a vaccine without their NHS number or if they aren’t registered with a GP?

­Yes. Anyone can get a vaccine, even if they do not have an NHS number or are not registered with a GP. The simplest way to do this is to go one of the walk-in vaccination services.

Although you don’t need to be registered with a GP to get your vaccination, this is important to make sure you get healthcare when you need it. You will also be invited for other vaccinations and important health checks to keep you well. Find out more about how to register with a GP surgery.

I’ve currently got COVID-19, can I get the vaccine?

­If you have COVID-19 or are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms you should not receive the COVID-19 vaccine until you have recovered. The guidance says this should be at least four weeks after the start of symptoms or from the date of a positive Covid-19 test.

Should people who have already had Coronavirus or who are suffering from long COVID get vaccinated?

Yes. Getting vaccinated is just as important for those who have already had COVID-19 as it is for those who haven’t, including people who have mild residual symptoms. Where people are suffering significant ongoing complications from COVID-19 they should discuss whether or not to have a vaccine now with a clinician.

I’ve got a health condition, can I have the vaccine?

A number of charities have worked with the NHS to produce advice about the COVID-19 vaccine and certain health conditions. You can find this information on the NHS website.

Are there any people who shouldn’t have the vaccine?

People with history of a severe allergy to the ingredients in the vaccines should not be vaccinated.

Are the vaccines safe for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities?

The trials demonstrated that the vaccines are consistently safe and effective across different ethnic groups.

For the Pfizer trial, participants included 9.6% black/African, 26.1% Hispanic/Latino and 3.4% Asian.  For the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine 10.1% of trail recipients were Black and 3.5% Asian. Full details are available in the Public Assessment Reports, which contain all the scientific information about the trials and information on trial participants. These can be found at:

Who is going to give me my vaccine and have they been properly trained?

All vaccinators have to undertake a rigorous training programme. To deliver the largest immunisation campaign in its history, the NHS is asking a number of trained healthcare professionals to support the vaccine roll out. This includes GPs, nurses and pharmacists.

Winter Booster vaccinations

What is the COVID-19 booster programme?

Booster vaccines are an extra dose of a vaccine that is given to ‘boost’ the protection against a virus or disease in people who have already been vaccinated. The COVID-19 booster programme is providing an additional vaccine dose to the people most at risk from COVID-19 to ensure continued high levels of protection over the winter.

Why is the COVID-19 booster programme needed?

Like some other vaccines, protection levels from the Covid vaccines will reduce over time. Having reviewed the current data, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has recommended that COVID-19 boosters are offered to the people who are most likely to become seriously ill from COVID-19 and those who care for them in order to provide maximum protection during the winter months. The boosters will help extend the protection people got from their first two doses and reduce the risk of them needing to be admitted to hospital due to COVID-19 this winter.

The flu vaccination programme is also now running which protects people from serious complications from getting flu, so we would encourage people who are eligible for a COVID-19 booster to also get their flu vaccination. More information on the flu vaccination

Who is eligible for the COVID-19 winter booster vaccine?

Booster doses will be available on the NHS for people most at risk from COVID-19 who have had a 2nd dose of a vaccine at least 3 months ago.

There’s more information on the NHS website.

I am severely immunosuppressed. When will I get my winter booster?

The JCVI has recommended that people who were severely immunosuppressed at the time of their first or second Covid-19 vaccination should be offered a third dose of the vaccine. This is separate to the booster programme and is an extra ‘top-up’ dose in response to evidence showing that they may not have responded as well to the vaccine as others and will therefore have lower levels of protection against Covid-19. It includes people with leukaemia and advanced HIV and people who have had recent organ transplants.

Consultants have been asked to identify eligible patients and recommend when the best time would be for them to have their third dose. Patients are being contacted either by their consultant or GP to arrange their vaccination.

Is there anyone that shouldn’t have the winter booster vaccine?

There are very few people in the eligible groups who should not have a booster.  If you have had a severe reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine you should discuss this with your doctor.

How do I get my COVID-19 winter booster?

The NHS is contacting people when it is their turn for a booster. People can also book an appointment online via the national booking service or by calling 119. In Calderdale we are also offering a winter booster walk-in service.

Which vaccines will be used for COVID-19 boosters?

In line with the advice from the JCVI, people will be given either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines for their booster. This is because the evidence from the clinical trials on different combinations of COVID-19 vaccines showed that this type of vaccine (called an mRNA or ‘messenger’ vaccine gave the best results as a booster, no matter which type of vaccine people had before.

If you are not able to have either of these vaccines due to a severe allergy to any of their ingredients or another medical reason, it may be possible for you to have the AstraZeneca vaccine instead if you had this before but you will need to discuss this with a health professional first.

Will there be any side effects from the booster vaccine?

As with your previous dose the common side effects are the same for all COVID-19 vaccines used in the UK, and include:

  • having a painful, heavy feeling and tenderness in the arm where you had your injection. This tends to be worst around 1 to 2 days after the vaccine
  • feeling tired
  • headache
  • general aches, or mild flu like symptoms

You can rest and take paracetamol (follow the dose advice in the packaging) to help make you feel better. Although feeling feverish is not uncommon for 2 to 3 days, a high temperature is unusual and may indicate you have COVID-19 or another infection.

Although a fever can occur within a day or 2 of vaccination, if you have any other COVID-19 symptoms or your fever lasts longer, stay at home and arrange to have a test. Symptoms following vaccination normally last less than a week. If your symptoms seem to get worse or if you are concerned, you can call NHS 111.

Can I have the booster if I haven’t completed the first vaccination course?

No, you need to finish the first course of your vaccination.

Can I have my flu vaccine and COVID-19 winter booster vaccine at the same time?

Yes, the evidence from the clinical trials showed that it is safe and effective to have these at the same time. However, it may not always be possible to get them together so you should have each vaccination as soon as it is offered rather than waiting to try to get them at the same time.

I haven’t yet had the COVID-19 vaccination, can I still get my first jabs?

Yes, you can still get your first or second vaccination if you haven’t had yours yet. Everyone aged 16 and over can book their vaccination using the online NHS booking service or by calling 119 free of charge, anytime between 7am and 11pm seven days a week. 

Can I get the booster if I am pregnant?

If you are pregnant and in one of the groups that the JCVI has recommended for the boosters, you are eligible to receive a booster, no earlier than three months after completion of the first course of vaccination. The NHS will contact you when it is your turn.

Can you still catch COVID-19 after having a booster?

The COVID-19 booster will increase your protection levels and reduce the chance of you suffering serious effects from the disease. It may take a few days for your body to build up some protection from the booster. Like all medicines, no vaccine is completely effective – some people may still get COVID-19 despite being vaccinated, but this should be less severe.

Further information about the winter booster

Guide to the booster vaccination

Children and young people

How old do children and young people have to be to get the vaccine?

All children and young people aged 12 and over can get a 1st dose and 2nd dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (including children who turn 12 on the date of vaccination).

2nd doses are available 12 weeks after the 1st dose.

Where can children and young people get their vaccination?

Most children aged 12-15 can:

Over 16s can:

How can my child get their vaccine at school?

Most children aged 12-15 will be offered a 1st and 2nd dose of the vaccine at school during school hours.

1st doses were offered in all Calderdale schools between September – December 2021.

2nd doses will be offered in Calderdale schools from January 2022. Children who have not yet had a vaccine can get their 1st dose during these vaccination sessions.

School immunisation teams will visit your child’s school to give the vaccine.

As a parent or guardian you will get a letter or email with information about when the vaccine will be offered, and you’ll be asked to give consent.

If your child misses their COVID-19 vaccination, for any reason, they will be offered it again at a later date.

My child is at high risk from COVID-19. What does this mean?

Some children and young people aged 12-18 are considered at high risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19 if either:

  • they live with someone who is more likely to get infections (such as someone who has HIV, has had a transplant or is having certain treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis)
  • they have a condition that means they’re at high risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19

Conditions that mean they may be at high risk are:

  • a severe problem with the brain or nerves, such as cerebral palsy
  • Down’s syndrome
  • severe or multiple learning disabilities (or they’re on the learning disability register)
  • a condition that means they’re more likely to get infections (such as some genetic conditions or types of cancer)

Those who are considered at high risk should get their 2nd dose 8 weeks after the 1st. They will be contacted by a local NHS service such as a GP surgery to arrange their appointments.

How do I know the vaccine is safe for my child?

The JCVI has reviewed extensive clinical evidence for the safety of giving the COVID-19 vaccine to children and young people in the eligible groups and found it to be safe and effective.

All the COVID-19 vaccines approved for use in the UK have met strict standards of safety and effectiveness and have gone through all the same clinical trials and safety checks that all other licensed medicines have to complete before they can be used. So far, millions of people have had a COVID-19 vaccine and reports of serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, have been very rare.

Which vaccine will children be offered?

In line with JCVI guidance, children and young people will be given the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.

I have already had COVID-19, do I still need to have a vaccination?

Yes. Getting vaccinated is just as important for those who have already had COVID-19 as it is for those who haven’t, including people who have lingering mild symptoms.

If your child has tested positive for COVID-19 and is not at high risk from COVID-19, they need to wait 12 weeks before they can have a COVID-19 vaccine. This starts from the date of their positive PCR test.

Can people get a vaccine without their NHS number or if they aren’t registered with a GP?

No. Anyone can get a vaccine, even if they do not have an NHS number or are not registered with a GP. If you are 16 or 17, the simplest way to do this is to go one of the walk-in vaccination services that are offering the jab to 16 and 17 year olds. Details of suitable clinics in Calderdale are available online on our grab a jab walk-in clinic page or you can use the NHS site finder to search for sites near your postcode. 16 and 17 year olds can also book an appointment through the National Booking Service.

Children with health conditions that put them at increased risk of Covid-19 will already be receiving health care and will be contacted by the NHS.

Further information for children and young people

The leaflets below have been produced by the NHS and Public Health England to provide further information on the Covid-19 vaccine and what to expect for children and young people:

Covid-19 vaccination: a guide for children and young people

What to expect after your Covid-19 vaccination: advice for children and young people

COVID-19 vaccination for 5 to 11 year olds

My child is healthy. What are the benefits of them having the COVID-19 vaccine?

As well as protecting children and young people against serious COVID infection, by getting vaccinated, children and young people can reduce the risk of passing on the infection to others in their family and those they come into contact with. Getting the vaccine can also make it easier for children and young people to avoid putting their lives and their education on hold because of further disruption to schools, hobbies and social events due to the virus.

Where can I get my child the COVID-19 vaccine?

Appointments will be available at selected vaccination centres and community pharmacies and can be booked online at www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination or by calling 119. Some GP vaccination services will also be offering vaccinations to their patients in this age group but please do not contact your practice unless you are invited to make an appointment.

My child has already had COVID-19 and has built up natural immunity. Why do they still need the vaccine?

The COVID-19 vaccine should give your child stronger protection than natural immunity from previous infection against serious complications of infection – including any future waves due to new variants. Your child should also have some protection from the mild symptoms, and vaccination lowers the risk they will pass the virus on to others around them.

Is COVID-19 disease serious in young children?

For most children COVID-19 is a mild illness that may require a few days off school but rarely leads to complications. For a very few children, the symptoms can be more serious or last longer. There is evidence that some children will experience long COVID, and a minority of children may develop a delayed response known as Paediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome (PIMS-TS or PIMS) following COVID-19 infection.

Children with certain health conditions, or those with a weakened immune system, are at higher risk of serious COVID-19 disease. These children and those who live with someone who has a weakened immune system should already have been invited for vaccination.

What is long COVID?

For some people, coronavirus (COVID-19) can cause symptoms that last weeks or months after the infection has gone. This is sometimes called post-COVID-19 syndrome or “long COVID”. The chances of having long-term symptoms does not seem to be linked to how ill you are when you first get COVID-19. People who had mild symptoms at first can still have long-term problems. There are lots of symptoms you can have after a COVID-19 infection. Common long COVID symptoms include extreme tiredness, shortness of breath and difficulty sleeping. A full list of symptoms is available on the NHS website.

Is there more risk to a child of having COVID-19 or the vaccine?

The risk to a child of serious impact from COVID-19 is relatively low, but it will be lower if they get the vaccine. Research shows the COVID-19 vaccine can prevent the virus’s worst effects, can reduce the risk of hospitalisation, and it can protect your child and those around them from catching the virus as easily.

The majority of children and young people experience only mild symptoms following COVID-19 infection or are asymptomatic. However, there is evidence that some will experience Long COVID, and a minority of children may develop a delayed response known as Paediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome (PIMS-TS or PIMS) following COVID-19 infection.

The vaccine has been tested across the world and found to be safe and effective, including for children this age.

Why is the NHS offering vaccinations to 5–11-year-olds when the Government/ JCVI has said it is not urgent?

The JCVI has recommended that the NHS offer vaccinations to all 5-11 year olds, to boost immunity and increase their protection against any future waves of COVID-19. This recommendation has been accepted by Government and the vaccine has been approved for this age group by the UK’s medicines regulator, so the NHS is offering the vaccine to this group.

COVID-19 is still active and causing some children to miss out on their education and the things they enjoy.

The NHS wants to support families to make an informed choice, and to make things convenient and child-friendly for those who do decide to get it.

Will the vaccine give my child COVID-19?

Your child cannot catch COVID-19 from the vaccine. There is sometimes a delay in symptoms so it is possible they could catch the virus but not realise this until after their vaccination.

How long will the vaccine protect my child from COVID-19?

The COVID-19 vaccination will reduce the chance of your child suffering from COVID-19 disease. It may take a few weeks for their body to build up maximum protection from the vaccine. Two doses of the vaccine should give your child long lasting protection against serious complications of infection – including any future waves due to new variants. Some children may still get COVID-19 despite being vaccinated, but this should be less severe. If a child has had COVID-19 they will still get extra protection from the vaccine, but they will need to wait 12 weeks before getting vaccinated.

Which vaccine will my child be given and how many doses will they need?

Children aged 5-11 with no other underlying health conditions will be offered two paediatric (child) doses of the vaccine, with at least 12 weeks between doses. A paediatric dose is smaller than the doses given to those aged 12 and over.

Why is there a difference in the dose for 5–11-year-olds and those over 12?

5-11 year olds will be given a paediatric dose, 10 micrograms of Pfizer vaccine, compared to the 30 micrograms of Pfizer vaccine given to older children and adults. The majority of children and young people (CYP) experience only mild symptoms following COVID-19 infection or are asymptomatic. A smaller dose will provide protection while also reducing the risk of side-effects.

Is the paediatric dose as effective as the adult dose?

The immune response in 5-11 year olds after a paediatric dose of the vaccine will protect them from severe disease and reduce the risk of side-effects, in the same way that the adult dose protects those aged 12 and over.

The vaccine does not remove the virus, but research and experience of countries around the world shows it can prevent the worst effects of COVID-19 and reduce the risk of infection to your child and those around them.

My child is vulnerable/at risk. When should they have their vaccine?

Children aged 5-11 years-old who are more at risk from have already offered the vaccine and can get two paediatric (child) doses, eight weeks apart. Their GP or hospital specialist should have been in touch to arrange this.

I want to get my child vaccinated – what is the consent process?

Parents, carers or those with parental responsibilities should attend COVID-19 vaccination appointments with their child. Unlike vaccinations in schools, consent is collected on the day so this is the best way to make sure they can be vaccinated by going through questions together on site. For looked after children, please refer to the care plan where permissions and restrictions of consent will be outlined. Follow the link for further information on consent to treatment for children and young people.

My child is scared of injections – is it better to visit a vaccination site or GP/Pharmacy?

All vaccination sites, including GPs and Pharmacies are making efforts to ensure the vaccination environment is child-friendly and welcoming for families with young children. Vaccinators will make reasonable adjustments and fast-track individuals who are worried about vaccination. For example, sites may offer longer appointments and minimise the waiting time for children who are feeling anxious.

Will my child be offered a booster?

The NHS follows government decisions about who to vaccinate and the number of doses they received, which reflect recommendations of the Joint Committee on Vaccinations and Immunisations (JCVI). Currently there are no plans to offer healthy 5-11 year olds a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

More information

Information about the JCVI’s decision to offer 5-11 year olds the vaccination, and the related evidence that was considered:

JCVI statement on vaccination of children aged 5 to 11 years old (www.gov.uk)

Information for parents of 5-11 years:

COVID-19 vaccination: resources for children aged 5 to 11 years – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) (www.gov.uk)

COVID-19 vaccination for at risk 5 to 11-year-olds

Which children should have the COVID-19 vaccine?

The Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation has recommended that all 5 to 11- year-olds who are at high risk from Covid-19 due to a health condition should have the vaccine. It is also recommended for children of this age who live with someone who is immunosuppressed. This is to reduce the risk of them passing on the infection to their family members.


Which conditions mean my child is at higher risk from COVID-19?

Children at serious risk from the complications of COVID-19 infection include those with:

  • Severe neurodisabilities
  • A weakened immune system (immunosuppression). Children with very severely weakened immune systems, may need and extra (third) dose from 8 weeks after their second dose.
  • profound and multiple or severe learning disabilities
  • being on the learning disability register
  • Down’s syndrome
  • long term serious conditions affecting their body, including chronic heart or
  • respiratory disease or conditions affecting the kidneys, liver or digestive system

How do I get an appointment for my child?

If your child is eligible for the vaccine, your child’s GP or hospital consultant will contact you if they need to have the vaccine and tell you how to book an appointment. They will be in touch over the coming weeks so please wait to hear and do not contact your GP practice.

For children who live with someone who is immunosuppressed, the person who is immunosuppressed will be written to with details of how to make an appointment for them.

Where will children be vaccinated?

Most children will be offered an appointment at a centre run by local GPs or at the hospital where they are treated. Some appointments may also be offered in special schools.

Extra time will be allowed for child appointments and staff will be specially trained in vaccinating this age group. If your child needs any reasonable adjustments at their appointment to enable them to have their vaccination, please let the service know when you book your appointment so this can be put in place.

Who will give my child their vaccination?

The vaccines will be given by staff who have been specially trained in communicating with and vaccinating children of these ages, including children with special educational needs and disabilities.

What vaccine will they have?

Children will be given two child-sized doses of the Pfizer vaccine, usually 8 weeks apart. Each vaccine is a third of the dose that is given to older children and adults.

Can the Covid vaccine be given as a nasal spray like the flu vaccine?

No, the COVID-19 vaccine is currently only available as an injection.

Does my child still need to be vaccinated if they have had Covid-19?

Yes, however they will need to wait 4 weeks from when they tested positive before they can have their first or second vaccine.

Further information

A guide for parents for children aged 5 to 11 years of age at high risk (pdf leaflet)

A guide for parents for children aged 5 to 11 years of age at high risk (HTML)

What to expect after your child’s COVID-19 vaccination (pdf leaflet)

What to expect after your child’s COVID-19 vaccination (HTML)

About the vaccine

Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe?  

The vaccines approved for use in the UK have met strict standards of safety, quality and effectiveness set out by the independent Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

Any coronavirus vaccine that is approved must go through all the clinical trials and safety checks all other licensed medicines go through. The MHRA follows international standards of safety.

Other vaccines are being developed. They will only be available on the NHS once they have been thoroughly tested to make sure they are safe and effective.

So far, millions of people have had a COVID-19 vaccine and reports of serious side effects, such as allergic reactions or clotting problems, have been very rare.

To find out more about the vaccines approved in the UK, visit the following websites:

How do the vaccines work?

Like all vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccines teach your body to fight the virus.

The vaccines work by making a protein from the virus that is important for creating protection.  The protein stimulates the immune system to make antibodies and cells to fight the infection.

The components of the vaccine leave the body within a few days. The vaccines will not alter your DNA or genetic material.

How effective are the COVID-19 vaccines?

The vaccines have been shown to be highly effective at stopping people from becoming seriously ill or dying from COVID-19. Latest evidence also suggests that they help to prevent the virus spreading. The most recent analysis by Public Health England found that the vaccines have prevented between 26,000 and 28,000 deaths in England alone and between 6.4 and 7.9 million infections.

What ingredients are in the COVID-19 vaccine? Is the vaccine suitable for my diet (e.g. vegetarian, halal)?

The approved COVID-19 vaccines do not contain any animal products or egg.

There is no material of foetal or animal origin in the vaccines.

Read details about the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine and its ingredients.

Read details about the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine and its ingredients.

Read details about the Moderna vaccine and its ingredients.

How long do the vaccines take to work? 

Protection starts around seven days after your first dose. To get the maximum amount of protection, people need to have their second dose. Full protection takes effect around a week or two after the second dose.

The first dose should give you some protection from 3 or 4 weeks after you’ve had it, but you need two doses for stronger and longer-lasting protection.

There is a chance you might still get or spread COVID-19 even if you have a vaccine, so it’s important to follow advice about how to avoid catching and spreading the virus.

Will the vaccines work with the new strains?

There is currently no evidence that the new strains will be resistant to the vaccines we have, so we are continuing to vaccinate people as normal. Scientists are looking now in detail at the characteristics of the virus in relation to the vaccines. Viruses, such as the winter flu virus, often branch into different strains but these small variations rarely render vaccines ineffective.

Are there any side effects?

The COVID-19 vaccines approved for use in the UK have met strict standards of safety, quality and effectiveness.

They can cause some side effects, but not everyone gets them.

Any side effects are usually mild and should not last longer than a week, such as:

  • a sore arm from the injection
  • feeling tired
  • a headache
  • feeling achy
  • feeling or being sick

More serious side effects, such as allergic reactions or blood clotting, are very rare.

Find out more about COVID-19 vaccines side effects and safety

How do we know there won’t be side effects in 5 or 10 years’ time?

So far, thousands of people have been given a COVID-19 vaccine and reports of serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, have been very rare. No long-term complications have been reported.

Like every other vaccine in the world – and indeed like every medicine and treatment – COVID-19 vaccines may cause side effects in some people who are vaccinated.

This does not mean that every person who has a vaccine will experience side effects, or that the side effects will be particularly bad or damaging.

It’s also important to remember that no vaccine will be approved – or even be tested in a phase 3 clinical trial – if it hasn’t first passed other safety checks. At every stage of a vaccine’s development, from animals studies right through to phase 1 and phase 2 trials, safety is always being checked and side effects monitored.

I’ve heard a lot of rumours about the vaccine – how can I find out if they are true or false?

It is best to first check the source of the information you have received. We are aware that there are a number of rumours and misinformation and we understand why some people may feel apprehensive. The NHS has set up a webpage with lots of information on the vaccine as well as links to other trusted sources of information www.nhs.uk/CovidVaccine or www.gov.uk/coronavirus

In Leeds we are developing a range of resources in different formats so you can make an informed choice about the vaccine. The vaccine is not compulsory however it does give us the greatest chance of beating COVID-19. This will help protect you and your loved ones as well as helping your NHS.

Why do I need two doses of the vaccine?

The evidence from the clinical trials showed that people build up better protection against COVID-19 symptoms when the vaccine is given in two, smaller doses, with an interval between them.

Evidence shows that the second dose not only increases your protection against COVID-19 but gives you longer-lasting protection so it is very important that you have both doses. COVID-19 can make you very seriously ill and have long-term effects on your health so getting the maximum protection possible will give you the best chance of avoiding this. For example, having two doses has been shown to be over 90% effective in preventing hospitalisation.

Is one vaccine better than the other? 

All vaccines have been shown to be safe and highly effective. No trials have been carried out to compare the vaccines: the important thing is that they will both protect you from becoming seriously ill from COVID-19.

Guidance on Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine for people under 40 years

The Joint Committee for Vaccinations and Immunisations (JVCI) has updated its guidance for the use of the Oxford AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine. It has recommended that people under 40 are offered an alternative vaccination where available and where this will not cause delays to people having the vaccine.

This follows ongoing reviews by the independent regulator, the MHRA, of a very small number of people in the UK who have developed a rare blood-clotting condition since having the Oxford AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine. Both the JCVI and MHRA have emphasised that the risk is extremely small – just over 10 people in every million have developed this condition – and that the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks for the vast majority of people.

More information is available in this leaflet about COVID-19 vaccination and blood clotting.

I’m worried that I may have had the Covishield vaccine so not be able to travel to Europe

The government has confirmed that no Covishield vaccines have been administered in the UK.  All AstraZeneca vaccines given in the UK are the same product and appear on the NHS COVID Pass as Vaxzevria. The European Medicines Agency has authorised this brand of the vaccine and it is therefore recognised by the European Union.

The confusion arose because the AstraZeneca vaccine is manufactured under different commercial names and licences. Although this is the same vaccine, each licence has to be approved separately by the relevant authority in each country. The Covishield licence has not yet been authorised by the UK regulator, the MHRA, or the European Medicines Agency so this is why it is not used in the UK or accepted for travel to the EU.

Some batch numbers of the Vaxiveria vaccines were mistakenly listed as being Covishield by the Maltese authorities, which led to some people being refused entry to Malta. The government has confirmed that Malta has now amended their travel advice and that the NHS Covid Pass will be accepted as valid evidence for entry. This is set out on the Maltese government’s website at https://foreignandeu.gov.mt/en/Pages/Travel-Advice.aspx)

Information on how to get an online or paper version of the NHS COVID Pass is available on the NHS website.

How do I get a COVID Pass?

This is available through the NHS website. You do not need to contact your GP practice.

If you’re aged 12 or over, you can get a digital NHS COVID Pass for travel.

If you’re 18 or over, you can also use your digital NHS COVID Pass for domestic events and venues.

There are two ways you can get a digital NHS COVID Pass.

  • download and use the NHS App to get your NHS COVID Pass if you’re aged 13 or over
  • use the online NHS COVID Pass service if you’re aged 12 or over

Once you have your NHS COVID Pass you can download it as a PDF or it can be sent as a link in an email.

You need to be registered with a GP surgery in England or the Isle of Man to use the NHS App.

You’ll be asked to create an NHS login if you do not have one already.

Visit the NHS website for more information.

Can people pick which vaccine they have? 

You cannot usually choose which vaccine you have. When you book, you’ll only be offered an appointments for a vaccine that is suitable for you.

Most people can have any of the COVID-19 vaccines, but some people are only offered certain vaccines.

For example, if you’re pregnant or under 40 you’ll usually only be offered appointments for the Pfizer/BioNTech or Moderna vaccines.

You should have the same vaccine for both doses, unless you had serious side effects (such as a serious allergic reaction) after your 1st dose.

Can I have the vaccine while fasting/during Ramadan?

The British Islamic Medical Association has issued specific advice urging Muslims observing Ramadan not to delay getting the vaccine. Islamic scholars have said that injections for non-nutritional purposes do not invalidate the fast. You can read the full statement on their website.

The British Islamic Medical Association (IBMA) position statement on the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

After consulting Muslim health care professionals, Islamic scholars and Muslim umbrella bodies from across the UK, the IBMA has issued a position statement on the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine stating that they recommend the vaccine to ‘all eligible at-risk individuals in Muslim communities’.

Read about the Council For Mosques Position on COVID-19 Vaccines

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, fertility and COVID-19 vaccine

Can I have the vaccine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

You can be vaccinated against coronavirus (COVID-19) if you’re aged 16 or over and:

  • you’re pregnant or think you might be
  • you’re breastfeeding
  • you’re trying for a baby or might get pregnant in the future

The Joint Committee for Vaccinations and Immunisations has advised that pregnant women should be offered COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 vaccinations are also recommended for pregnant women by the Royal College of Midwives and Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

Thousands of pregnant women have been safely vaccinated in the UK and worldwide. It is important to have both doses of your COVID-19 vaccine to protect you and your unborn baby. You can get the vaccine at any stage of your pregnancy.

The vaccine cannot give you or your baby COVID-19.

You cannot catch COVID-19 from the vaccines and cannot pass it to your baby through your breast milk. You should therefore not stop breastfeeding in order to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

Can the vaccine affect fertility?

There’s no evidence the COVID-19 vaccines have any effect on your chances of becoming pregnant.

There’s no need to avoid getting pregnant after being vaccinated.

I am worried about having the vaccine, who should I talk to?

You’ll be able to discuss the benefits and potential risks of having a COVID-19 vaccine in pregnancy at your vaccination appointment.

You can also speak to a GP or your maternity team for advice.

Further information about pregnancy, breastfeeding, fertility and the COVID-19 vaccine

Read the latest information from the NHS

Read the latest COVID-19 vaccine advice if you’re pregnant, may get pregnant or are breastfeeding on GOV.UK

Read the latest Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and Royal College of Midwives statement on the COVID-19 vaccine and fertility

Read the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Q&As about COVID-19 vaccines, pregnancy and breastfeeding

The NHS national booking service

What are the operating hours of the telephone booking system?

The telephone booking service will be open 16 hours a day (from 7am until 11pm), seven days a week. People will also be able to book online 24/7.

What should people do if they can’t get through to the phone line straight away?

At times, due to high demand, the phone line will get very busy, which may mean waiting on the line for a while or calling back later. People can alternatively book online. If you need help to do this please ask someone in your support bubble.

What information will I need to book?

You will need to provide your name, date of birth, postcode and ideally your NHS number, which will be included on your booking letter. If you have lost your letter or don’t have your NHS number, you may need to provide the name and postcode/postcode of the GP practice you are registered with – in this circumstance you should use the phone booking service.

Does the national booking service work for people who don’t understand English well or are deaf?

The phone line has interpreters and a BSL facility available on request to help you book your appointments.

What if I book an appointment through the NHS website or 119 and I need to rearrange it?

If you need to rearrange an appointment that you booked through the NHS website, you can do this through the ‘manage your appointments’ section on the booking page. If you booked through 119, you can also ring to rearrange your appointment.

If you can’t attend your appointment for any reason, please cancel or rearrange it so that the appointment slot can be given to someone else who needs it.

Can I still book if I previously had an appointment but didn’t attend or cancel it?

Yes. The service will allow anyone who is eligible and has not already had a vaccination to book an appointment.

I’ve received a letter but someone I live who is the same age hasn’t yet. Can we get vaccinated together?

The NHS is inviting eligible people in a phased basis as supplies of the vaccine allow. It is important that you wait for your letter from the NHS, and you will not be able to book without one.

If you have received a letter and live with someone who is also eligible but has not received a letter, it is likely that theirs will follow shortly. If you like you can wait and book at the same time.

How is the service ensuring people don’t fraudulently book an appointment?

People will be asked to provide details of their identity at the time of booking, when they arrive for their appointment and before they are vaccinated.