Same-day private seasonal vaccinations for people outside NHS eligibility, or those who want their jab before NHS season opens. Flu is administered each autumn (October onwards) and COVID-19 in both spring and autumn campaigns. Both vaccines are pharmacist-administered with no GP referral needed.
NHS offers free flu (autumn) and COVID (spring/autumn) to eligible groups including over-65s, pregnant women, certain at-risk conditions, and carers. Private is for everyone else, or those who want appointment flexibility. Both vaccines available year-round in stock seasons. Pharmacist administered.
Clinical brief · Seasonal vaccinations
Why seasonal vaccination matters.
Three things to know about flu and COVID protection in 2026.
Private flu & COVID — same-day clinics at every branch
Why both, every year?
Flu and COVID viruses evolve. Each year’s vaccine is updated to match the strains expected to circulate. Last year’s vaccine becomes outdated — annual repeat is needed for both. Many people get both jabs in the same appointment when stock overlaps.
When’s the best time?
For flu, get vaccinated in early autumn (October–November) so you’re protected before flu season peaks December–February. For COVID, the autumn booster ideally lands September–October, and the spring booster around April for eligible groups. Stock dates vary year to year.
How well do they work?
Flu vaccine effectiveness varies year to year (30–60% depending on strain match) but reliably reduces hospitalisation and complications. COVID boosters give 50–70% protection against hospitalisation for several months, and ongoing protection against severe illness.
Symptoms to watch for
Why protection matters.
Both diseases can cause severe illness in vulnerable groups — and major disruption in healthy adults.
Sudden fever
Both flu and COVID start this way.
Cough & sore throat
Hallmark of both viruses.
Severe fatigue
Often profound — weeks to recover.
Body aches
Particularly with flu.
Pneumonia
Major cause of severe illness in both.
Cardiovascular events
Flu & COVID both increase short-term risk.
Long COVID
Persistent symptoms after acute illness.
Eligibility checklist
You should book if…
You are not eligible for NHS flu/COVID (under 65, no qualifying condition).
You want to vaccinate before NHS season opens.
You are a carer or health worker in regular close contact.
You have upcoming travel during peak flu/COVID season.
You want same-day appointment flexibility without NHS booking.
Severe allergy to vaccine components excludes. Egg allergy: most modern flu vaccines are egg-free — discuss with pharmacist. Pregnancy: both vaccines are routinely offered NHS-free during pregnancy.
Flu vaccine is £25 per dose. COVID is £99 per dose. Both prices include pharmacist consultation and same-day administration. Flu and COVID can be given in the same visit (different arms).