Vaccines for adults

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I’m an adult, do I still need vaccines?

Vaccines are the most effective public health measure to prevent diseases. In adults, they are mostly given to protect older individuals and those with chronic conditions from pneumonia.

Vaccination programmes are coordinated by the NHS. All vaccines offered by the NHS have minor side effects and negligible risks for the eligible populations. Vaccines are free for all residing in the UK regardless of documentation, employment or immigration status.

Below you will find information on specific vaccines and how to book.

Vaccines recommended for all adults

The most common vaccines for adults protect from pneumonia (flu, pneumococcal, RSV).

• Flu vaccine (every year from 65, other groups including those with long term conditions and carers eligible)
• Pneumococcal vaccine (one dose when you turn 65, and those more at risk of getting very unwell)
• RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccine – new from September 2024
• Shingles vaccine - The shingles vaccine protects you from a nerve and skin infection that can cause severe and/or chronic pain. They used to be offered between 70-79. Since 2023 they are offered earlier, when you turn 65. They are also offered for adults aged 50 and over if they have underlying conditions that weaken their immune system.

Extra vaccines for people at risk

Seasonal COVID-19 vaccine - COVID-19 vaccines are usually offered in spring and autumn if you're at increased risk from COVID-19 or depending on your age.

Not sure about the COVID-19 vaccine? Go to the NHS website to understand more about the vaccine benefits, safety, and side effects.

How to book these vaccines in Bradford?

When they're available, they will usually be offered through a local NHS service (GP surgery) and in walk-in vaccination sites. The NHS will contact you if your NHS record suggests you may be eligible for a seasonal COVID-19 vaccine.

Vaccines for pregnant women

Many vaccines are safe in pregnancy and can protect not only you but your baby from diseases.

• Flu vaccine - During flu season
• Whooping cough (pertussis) vaccine - Around 20 weeks pregnant. This vaccine can protect your newborn from whooping cough before they reach the age to receive their own vaccines.
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine – You may be offered a COVID-19 vaccine as part of the seasonal COVID-19 vaccination programme. COVID-19 vaccines are safe for pregnant women at any stage of the pregnancy – read more on this website
• RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccine – new from September 2024 – this vaccine can protect your baby from a type of chest infection called bronchiolitis. This can cause breathing problems and may need to be treated in hospital.

Only live vaccines are not usually advised in pregnancy, because they use a live version of a virus or bacteria. Live vaccines include BCG (tuberculosis), MMR (measles, mumps and rubella), oral polio (part of the 6-in-1 vaccine given to infants), oral typhoid and yellow fever.