Recommended Adult Vaccines (UK NHS Schedule)
| Vaccine | Who | When | Doses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flu (seasonal) | All 65+; pregnant; high-risk | Every autumn | 1 annually |
| COVID-19 booster | 65+; immunocompromised; high-risk | Annually (autumn) | 1 per season |
| Shingles (Shingrix) | 70–79 years (UK) | One-off | 2 doses, 2–6 months apart |
| Pneumococcal (PPV23) | 65+; high-risk | Usually once | 1–2 doses |
| Td/IPV booster | Adults without prior booster | One-off if no record | 1 dose |
| HPV (Gardasil-9) | Adults up to 45 (private); NHS to age 25 | Course of 2–3 doses | 2–3 doses |
| Travel vaccines | Travel-specific | Before travel (6–8 weeks) | Varies |
Who Is 'High Risk' for Flu & COVID?
- Chronic respiratory disease (asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis)
- Chronic heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease
- Diabetes
- Immunocompromised (cancer treatment, organ transplant, HIV, steroids)
- BMI ≥40
- Carers and healthcare workers
- Pregnant women (any trimester)
- Residents of care homes
Shingles Vaccine TimingIf you're 70–79 and haven't had the Shingles vaccine, request it from your GP. Shingrix is >90% effective and significantly reduces the risk of post-herpetic neuralgia — debilitating nerve pain lasting months after shingles.
Can I get the flu vaccine if I'm allergic to eggs?
Most people with egg allergy can safely receive flu vaccine. Only those with confirmed anaphylaxis to eggs require specialist assessment. Discuss with your GP.
Do vaccines cause autism?
No. The original 1998 study was fraudulent and has been thoroughly debunked and retracted. Decades of research involving millions of children confirm there is no link between any vaccine and autism.
How do I know if I've had all my childhood vaccines?
Check your Red Book (UK baby record) or request your immunisation history from your GP. Adults who missed childhood vaccines (e.g. MMR, polio) can catch up.
What travel vaccines do I need?
Depends on destination. Common ones: Hepatitis A (most destinations), Typhoid (South Asia, Africa), Yellow fever (sub-Saharan Africa, South America — mandatory for entry), Rabies (rural Asia/Africa), Malaria prophylaxis.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for general education only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.