Flu vs COVID vaccines this winter: who's eligible and where to get them

Flu and COVID-19 are different viruses, and the vaccines that protect against them are different too, but Northern Ireland's winter vaccination programme often makes both available around the same time. Here's a general guide to how eligibility works, where to get vaccinated, and what to check before you go. 

Two different vaccines, one winter campaign 

Flu vaccination happens every year because flu viruses change, so the vaccine is updated each season to match the strains expected to circulate. COVID-19 vaccination in Northern Ireland is also offered seasonally to people at higher risk, with a main autumn/winter programme and, in some years, an additional spring programme for the most vulnerable groups. The Public Health Agency typically encourages anyone eligible to take up their free flu vaccine, COVID-19 booster, or both, when invited. 

Who's generally eligible

Eligibility is reviewed and set fresh each season, so this article deliberately doesn't list fixed ages or conditions. In general terms, flu vaccination is usually prioritised for people who are pregnant, have certain underlying health conditions, or are within an older age bracket, while COVID-19 vaccination is usually prioritised for older age groups, care home residents, and people with a weakened immune system. The exact current criteria for both are set by the Department of Health and published by the HSC Public Health Agency at nidirect.gov.uk/winter-vaccines, which is the right place to check rather than relying on any single article, including this one. 

Where to get vaccinated 

Both vaccines are usually available through GP surgeries and through participating community pharmacies taking part in the Community Pharmacy Vaccination Service (flu) and the Community Pharmacy COVID-19 Vaccination Service. Not every pharmacy takes part in every scheme, so it's worth checking with your nearest 123 Chem branch about which vaccinations are available there this season.

Can you get both at the same time? 

In many cases flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be given during the same visit, but this depends on current clinical guidance and what your vaccination provider is set up to offer that day. It's worth asking when you book rather than assuming both will automatically be available together. 

How 123 Chem can help 

If you're eligible and have been invited for either vaccine, get in touch with your nearest 123 Chem branch to check availability, or see our Seasonal Vaccinations page for more detail. If you're not sure whether you're currently eligible, nidirect.gov.uk/winter-vaccines has the official, up-to-date criteria for this season. 

This article is general information, not medical advice. Eligibility criteria are set fresh each season and can change; always check current guidance rather than relying on this page alone.