Flu & COVID-19 Vaccinations
Protect yourself and those around you this winter. Booking opens 17 August 2026 and appointments run from 1 October 2026. If you're eligible for both, we'll give your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at the same appointment — one visit, one sleeve rolled up. Not eligible on the NHS? A private flu vaccination is available to anyone aged 18 and over.
Children's flu vaccinations, now at Skeltons
New for this season, we can vaccinate children in the pharmacy. Children aged 2 and 3, and at-risk children aged 2 to 17, can be vaccinated with us from 1 October. School-aged children who missed their vaccination at school can come to us from 1 December. Most children have a quick, painless nasal spray rather than an injection.
Not eligible? Private flu vaccination
If you don't fall into one of the NHS groups, you can still protect yourself with a private flu vaccination. It's the same vaccine used in the NHS programme, given by our trained pharmacists, and available to anyone aged 18 and over. Popular with people in busy public-facing roles, those travelling over winter, or anyone who'd rather not lose a fortnight to flu. Employer-funded and group bookings welcome — please get in touch.
Key dates for 2026/27
17 August — booking opens.
1 September — vaccinations begin for pregnant women and children.
1 October — vaccinations begin for all other eligible groups.
30 November — the date by which the NHS aims to have vaccinated most eligible people.
31 January 2027 — the COVID-19 campaign closes.
- Check you're eligible — see the groups listed on this page. Not sure? Ask us in store, we'll check for you.
- Book from 17 August — use the Skeltons booking link under Seasonal Services, or give us a ring and we'll book you in. You can also book through the NHS National Booking Service.
- Come in from 1 October — wear something with a loose sleeve. The appointment takes about five minutes.
- Have both together — if you're eligible for flu and COVID-19, we'll give both at the same visit.