NHS Dorset is urging eligible people to book their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations now, or they may be left unprotected against these serious illnesses as winter approaches. Appointments start from 1 October, and booking is open already.
People can book via the booking service webpage: Vaccination and booking services – NHS or by calling 119.
Last winter, in Dorset over 280,000 people had their flu vaccination, helping to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their community from the virus. Vaccinations help stop the spread of illness to other people, like young children, older people, or anyone who already has health problems. After a vaccination, it takes about two weeks for the body to build up protection.
Martin Sale, Lead Vaccination Pharmacist at Dorset HealthCare and NHS Dorset said,
“Vaccinations are one of the best ways to protect yourself and those around you from getting seriously unwell with flu, COVID‑19, or RSV this winter. Appointments are available all across Dorset so I urge you to book in today and get protected at your earliest opportunity.
“Whether it’s for you, your child, or someone you care for, getting vaccinated helps keep people safe and well. By doing this together, we’re also helping NHS staff focus on caring for those who need the most support in our communities.”
Most eligible people can get the flu vaccination from 1 October 2025. Some people, including anyone who is pregnant, can get vaccinated now (from 1 September 2025).
To read more about vaccinations for younger children, visit the dedicated webpage which has reassuring videos and a Flu Fighters children’s story: www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk/kids.
From October, more people can get vaccinated including:
For the flu vaccination:
- People aged 65 or older
- People under 65 with health problems (in a high-risk group)
- People living in care homes
- Frontline health or social care workers
- People who live with someone with a weak immune system
- A child aged 2 to 16
For the COVID-19 vaccination:
- People aged 75 or over
- People in care homes
- People aged 6 months and older with weak immune systems
You can get your vaccination at lots of places like your GP surgery, local pharmacy, school, or community clinic. If you’re pregnant, you can also ask about the flu jab at your maternity appointments.
The NHS will also send reminders by text, letter, or phone call. But you don’t need to wait, if you know you can have a jab, you can book it now using the NHS website, the NHS app, or by calling 119.
Please book as soon as you can. Getting your vaccination early means you’re more likely to stay well when flu season is at its worst, usually in December and January.
If you’re not sure whether you or your child should get a vaccination, speak to your GP surgery or check the NHS app.
For information about vaccinations in Dorset, visit www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk/vaccinations.
