Winter is a season of fun, festivities and family times you don’t want to miss. However, as it gets colder viruses like flu and RSV can spread

more easily. These viruses can lead to serious illness and even time in hospital. Thankfully every winter the NHS offers free vaccines, to those most at risk, to keep everyone protected. That could be during pregnancy or older age or, to keep little ones, teens and those with long-term health conditions safe and well.

If you’re eligible, it’s important to get your winter vaccines each year. This helps top up your protection, even if you’ve had them before or have already been ill. That’s because your immunity fades over time, and the viruses change each year. By getting vaccinated, you’re not only protecting yourself, but also the people you care about most.

Winter vaccinations

• Flu – can be a serious illness for people of all ages. It can lead to complications like bronchitis and pneumonia. Adults aged over 65, pregnant people, people with long-term health conditions, people in care homes, those who live with someone with a weakened immune system and children (aged 2–3 years and school aged) are all encouraged to get the flu vaccine.

• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) - this virus causes coughs and colds and can be dangerous for older people and young babies. Adults aged 75 to 79 and pregnant people from 28 weeks should get this vaccine. It helps protect the baby in the first few months.

• COVID-19 – can cause serious illness for some including breathing difficulties and long-lasting health problems. Adults aged 75, people in care homes and those with a weakened immune system are encouraged to get their COVID-19 vaccine. Keep protected this winter. To find out more about winter vaccines, including where to get them, head to the NHS Greater Manchester website, or search: NHS GM Winter vaccinations.

Winter Vaccinations 2025/26 at Whittaker Lane Medical Centre

RSV

- Patients who are eligible will be contacted by the Practice and invited to book an appointment.

FLU Nasal (September onwards)

- Texts or letters will be sent out to parents/guardians of eligible children aged 2/3yrs olds with an invite to book an appointment.

FLU Pregnant (September onwards)

- Texts or letters will be sent out to eligible patients with an invite to book an appointment.

FLU Adult (October onwards)

- Texts or letters will be sent out to eligible patients aged 65 and over, aged 18-64 in a clinical risk group and Carers.

COVID (October onwards)

- Texts and letters will be sent out to eligible patients aged 75 and over, and those aged 6months and over who are immunoncompromised.