Support
DONATE
DONATE

Winter Vaccinations & Staying Well This Season

Sep 29, 2025

Winter Vaccinations & Staying Well This Season

As the colder months roll in, many of our community are doing what they can to keep well through winter – including protecting themselves and loved ones by getting vaccinated against certain winter illnesses, like flu.

We have put together this primer – with links to further information if needed.

Flu & COVID-19 Vaccines: Why They Matter

If you’re eligible, getting vaccinated each year helps boost your protection and lowers your chances of getting seriously ill.

You don’t need to wait for an invitation — you can pre-book your appointment now. Appointments start from 1 October 2025.

  • Flu vaccine (18+): Book online at a pharmacy or through the NHS App
  • Flu vaccine (children aged 2–3): Also available to book this way
  • COVID-19 vaccine (eligible adults): Book online or via the NHS App
  • COVID-19 vaccine (children aged 5+): Available to book too

Scroll down for links from NHS and Public Health Services across the UK.

—————————–

What the NHS Says

The flu virus changes every year, and your immunity fades over time — so even if you had the vaccine last year, it’s important to get it again.

Getting vaccinated early helps protect you and those around you.

Who can get the free NHS flu vaccine?

You’re eligible if you:

  • Are 65 or older (including those turning 65 by 31 March 2026)
  • Have certain long-term health conditions (see below)
  • Are pregnant
  • Live in a care home
  • Are a main carer or receive a carer’s allowance
  • Live with someone who has a weakened immune system / long-term health condition.

Health conditions that qualify include:

  • Breathing issues like asthma (requiring steroids +/- an inhaler), COPD, or cystic fibrosis. This would also include DIPNECH.
  • Heart conditions, such as coronary heart disease or heart failure: including Carcinoid Heart Disease
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Liver disease – such as cirrhosis or hepatitis: please note – if you have neuroendocrine cancer related liver metastases this condition may only apply IF your liver function is affected and/or you are on a treatment that may lower your immunity e.g., chemotherapy: speak with your specialist team or nurse specialist for further advice.
  • Neurological conditions like Parkinson’s, MS, or cerebral palsy
  • Diabetes (including Type III) or Addison’s disease
  • Weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy, or steroid use
  • Health-related spleen conditions and/or if you have had your spleen removed.
  • Learning disabilities
  • Being very overweight – a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above

Not sure if you qualify? Speak to your specialist team, GP or pharmacist.

—————————–

Who can get the winter COVID-19 vaccine?

You’re eligible if you:

  • Are 75 or older (including those turning 75 by 31 January 2026)
  • Are aged 6 months to 74 years and have a weakened immune system
  • Live in a care home for older adults

 You may qualify if you:

  • Have or had blood cancer (e.g. leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma)
  • Had an organ, bone marrow, or stem cell transplant
  • Have HIV or a genetic immune disorder such as severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)
  • Are undergoing or recently had chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or biological therapy (For those with neuroendocrine cancer – NET or NEC – this would include Everolimus, CapTem, Sunitinib, radioligand therapy e.g. PRRT and/or any chemotherapy).
  • Take steroid medication (depending on dose)
  • Are on long-term immunosuppressive treatment for conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, IBD, scleroderma, or psoriasis

This isn’t an exhaustive list. If you’re unsure, check with your specialist team, GP or local pharmacy.

—————————–

 You might also be eligible for other vaccinations, including:

These help protect against serious winter illnesses like pneumonia.

—————————–

Nation-Specific Advice & Resources on Winter Vaccinations:

 England: Keep Warm, Keep Well

—————————–

Neuroendocrine Cancer UK Helpline is open

Tuesday – Thursday from 10am to 4pm

0800 434 6476

Or email us using our Contact Form – available HERE