Leeds Residents Encouraged to Receive Winter Vaccinations

Free flu, Covid-19 and RSV vaccines available for eligible groups

Leeds residents are being urged to take up the offer of free NHS vaccinations against flu, Covid-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) this winter. Health officials emphasise that vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of serious illness from seasonal viruses, especially as protection from previous vaccines can decrease over time and viruses may change annually.

Who is eligible for the free vaccinations?

The following groups are eligible for the free flu vaccination:

• People aged 65 and over
• Individuals with weakened immune systems or long-term health conditions
• Pregnant women
• Children aged two to three years old (available at community pharmacies from 1 October)

Covid-19 vaccination eligibility this autumn includes:

• People aged 75 and over
• Individuals with weakened immune systems
• Residents in care homes for older adults

Vaccinations against RSV are available for:

• Pregnant women
• Adults aged 75 to 79

Access and booking

Residents can check their eligibility and book free flu or Covid-19 vaccinations through several channels:

• General practitioner (GP) surgeries
• Local pharmacies
• The NHS App
• The national booking service

The introduction of flu vaccinations for two- to three-year-old children at community pharmacies aims to improve access and convenience for families across Leeds.

Current health context and importance of vaccination

The latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) surveillance report indicates that Covid-19 cases and hospital admissions are steadily increasing, with positivity rates rising over the past week. Vaccination is seen as a key measure to ease demand on NHS and social care services during the busy winter period, when virus transmission is expected to peak around Christmas and New Year.

Health officials stress that vaccination helps protect individuals, their families, and the wider community from serious respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

Statements from local officials

Victoria Eaton, Director of Public Health at Leeds City Council, said:

“Getting vaccinated is one of the most effective ways to stay healthy and limit the spread of winter viruses. I strongly encourage everyone who is eligible to come forward and get vaccinated. Whether it’s flu, Covid-19 or RSV, these viruses can have a serious impact – especially on those with underlying health conditions, young children, and older adults. By getting vaccinated, you’re not only protecting yourself, but also helping to keep your loved ones and our wider community safe.”

Councillor Fiona Venner, Executive Member for Equality, Health and Wellbeing at Leeds City Council, added:

“We know that flu and other respiratory viruses tend to peak around Christmas and New Year, and no-one wants to miss out on festive celebrations due to illness. Vaccination helps reduce pressure on our NHS and social care services, and it’s free and easy to access. I’m particularly pleased to see the new community pharmacy offer for two- to three-year-olds, which will make it even easier for families to protect their children.”

Further information

For full details on eligibility and to book vaccinations, residents can visit the NHS website at www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations.