
COVID, Flu and RSV: Understanding the Differences
The key differences between COVID-19, flu and RSV, how these respiratory infections spread, who is most at risk, and how vaccination can help provide protection. Contents What are COVID-19, flu
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COVID-19 is a respiratory infection that can cause serious illness, particularly in older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and those with long-term health conditions. Even when symptoms are mild, COVID can lead to complications and long-lasting effects in some individuals.
COVID vaccines help reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation, and complications. Booster doses are offered because immunity can reduce over time, and vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and others.
Our pharmacy provides NHS COVID vaccinations for eligible patients as well as private COVID vaccination options for those who are not covered by current NHS programmes.
Eligibility for NHS COVID-19 vaccinations is determined by the NHS and may vary between seasonal vaccination campaigns. Under the current NHS COVID-19 vaccination programme, eligible groups include:
Adults aged 75 years and over
Residents in care homes for older adults
People aged 6 months and over with a weakened immune system due to certain medical conditions or treatments that affect the immune system
Our pharmacy can advise on the latest NHS eligibility criteria and confirm whether you qualify for a free NHS COVID vaccination.
If you are not eligible under the current NHS programme, you may still be able to receive a private COVID-19 vaccination. Many people choose private vaccination to maintain protection against COVID-19, particularly before travel, major events, visiting vulnerable relatives, or during periods of increased virus circulation.
Protection from previous COVID vaccinations and natural infection can decrease over time, meaning your level of protection may not remain as strong as it was initially. Booster vaccinations help refresh and strengthen your immune response, improving protection against severe illness, hospitalisation, and complications from COVID-19. They are particularly important for older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and those with underlying health conditions, helping to maintain protection during periods when COVID-19 is circulating more widely.
No. COVID-19 vaccines cannot cause COVID infection. The vaccines used in the UK do not contain live coronavirus capable of causing the disease. Some people may experience mild side effects after vaccination, such as a sore arm, tiredness, headache, or mild flu-like symptoms, but these are a normal sign that the immune system is responding to the vaccine and usually resolve within a few days.
Common side effects include:
Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
Tiredness or fatigue
Headache
Muscle aches
Chills
Mild fever
These side effects are usually mild and resolve within a few days.
Protection gradually decreases over time, which is why seasonal booster programmes may be recommended for eligible groups. The exact duration of protection varies depending on factors such as age, health status, previous vaccinations, and circulating variants.
In many cases, yes. COVID-19 and flu vaccines can often be given during the same visit when appropriate. Receiving both vaccinations can be a convenient way to protect yourself during the winter respiratory virus season.
Yes. COVID vaccination is recommended during pregnancy because it helps protect both the mother and baby from complications associated with COVID-19 infection. If you are pregnant and have questions about vaccination, our pharmacy team can provide advice based on current guidance.
Yes. For NHS vaccinations, records are routinely updated through NHS systems. Where appropriate and with the relevant information-sharing arrangements in place, your vaccination record can be updated to ensure continuity of care.
We offer both appointments and walk-in covid vaccinations. We recommend booking an appointment as it guarantees your vaccination slot and helps minimise waiting times, particularly during busy periods. Walk-ins are welcome, subject to vaccine availability and clinic capacity.

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