The Public Health Agency (PHA) has confirmed that the 2026 COVID-19 spring vaccination programme is now officially underway.

The initiative aims to bolster immunity for the most vulnerable members of the community ahead of potential infection waves during the spring and summer months.

This year's campaign features a significant change in coordination: the eligibility for the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine has been aligned with the COVID-19 criteria for those aged 75 and over. This alignment allows eligible individuals to receive both life-saving vaccinations during a single appointment, streamlining the process for patients and healthcare providers alike.

Eligibility Criteria

The spring booster is being offered to the following groups:

• Adults aged 75 years and over (or those who will turn 75 by 30 June 2026).

• Residents in care homes for older adults.

• Individuals aged 6 months and over who are immunosuppressed, as defined by the government's "Green Book" clinical guidelines. Rachel Spiers, Senior Commissioning Lead for Immunisations at the PHA, stated: "Respiratory viruses like COVID-19 are still in circulation and can be life-threatening for the most vulnerable people in society. It is important to keep up to date with your vaccines, as viruses change and protection fades over time. I would urge everyone who falls into an eligible group to take up the offer of free vaccination."

Rollout and Appointments

The vaccination window will run from April until June. While a six-month interval from the previous dose is typically recommended, the booster can be administered as early as three months after the last vaccination if necessary.

The rollout is being managed through a multi-channel approach:

• GPs and Community Pharmacies: Will lead the vaccination of adults aged 75+ and immunosuppressed individuals aged 18+.

• HSC Trust Clinics: Will provide vaccinations for immunosuppressed children and young people (aged 6 months to 17 years).

• Mobile Teams: Community pharmacies will visit care homes, while HSC Trust teams will visit housebound patients identified by their GPs.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt emphasized the importance of the programme, urging all invited individuals to come forward: "Getting your vaccination is the best form of direct protection against COVID-19."

Eligible residents should wait to be contacted by their GP or can check for availability at participating local pharmacies. For further information and detailed guidance on the spring top-up, visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/covidvaccine.