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Check the campaign window
The autumn 2026 campaign is open now until 31 January 2027. Outside the NHS campaign windows, supply pauses. No appointment needed — just walk in.
NHS COVID-19 Programme
COVID boosters when you need them.
The autumn 2026 NHS COVID-19 vaccine is available now until 31 January 2027 — walk in, no appointment needed. We're 2 minutes from Borough station and 8 from London Bridge, and you can have your flu jab at the same visit.
- Free if eligibleCost (NHS)
- About 10 minutesVisit time
- 1 Oct – 31 JanAutumn 2026
Why get a COVID booster?
COVID-19 is now an endemic respiratory virus — most adults have prior immunity from infection, vaccination, or both. But for older adults, immunocompromised patients, and people with chronic conditions, that immunity wanes over time. Seasonal boosters top it back up before each winter and spring wave.
The current NHS programme is JCVI-led: eligibility, vaccine type, and timing are reviewed each season. The autumn 2026 campaign runs from 1 October 2026 to 31 January 2027, and Qrystal Pharmacy is a participating provider, so eligible adults can walk in or pre-book. Eligibility is narrower than it used to be — adults aged 65 to 74 are no longer included unless they have a weakened immune system.
If you're not currently eligible for an NHS booster, our pharmacist can talk you through current guidance, signpost you to private options where available, and answer any concerns about long-term safety.
Who is eligible for a free NHS COVID booster?
For the autumn 2026 campaign (1 October 2026 to 31 January 2027), the free NHS COVID-19 vaccine is offered to:
- Adults aged 75 and over, including those turning 75 by 31 January 2027
- Residents of care homes for older adults
- People aged 6 months and over with a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment (we vaccinate adults; children are vaccinated through other NHS services)
You're not eligible if:
- Patients outside the current JCVI eligibility groups — your immunity from prior doses and infection is generally considered sufficient. Private vaccination is available in the UK; we can signpost you.
How your booster visit works
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Confirm eligibility
Our pharmacist verifies eligibility against the current JCVI list — usually via your NHS record. Bring proof if you have a recent NHS letter or text inviting you.
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Pre-jab consultation
We review prior doses, current medicines, and any allergies in a private consultation room. The pharmacist will explain the specific vaccine being used in this campaign.
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Vaccine + observation
A quick upper-arm injection followed by 5 minutes of observation. Co-administration with the flu jab is fine — usually one in each arm. Your record updates electronically.
What's included
- JCVI eligibility check and consent
- Pre-jab consultation in a private room
- Current-campaign NHS COVID-19 vaccine
- Optional co-administration with NHS flu jab
- Post-jab observation and aftercare advice
- Electronic update to your GP and NHS record
COVID vaccination — frequently asked questions
Which vaccine will I get?
The vaccine used depends on the current NHS campaign — Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna mRNA vaccines have been the main options in recent UK seasons. Our pharmacist will confirm the exact product on the day.
I had a recent COVID infection — should I still get a booster?
Generally yes, if you're in an eligible group. NHS guidance usually advises waiting at least 4 weeks after a confirmed infection before boosting, so prior immunity has settled. The pharmacist will confirm timing on the day.
What side effects are common?
A sore arm, mild tiredness, headache, and low-grade fever for 24–48 hours are most common. Severe reactions are very rare. We provide written aftercare advice and a number to call if you're concerned.
When does the autumn 2026 COVID vaccine programme end?
The last day to get the NHS COVID-19 vaccine this season is 31 January 2027. Coming in before December gives you protection through the winter peak.
Do I need an appointment, and where are you?
No appointment needed — walk in during opening hours (Monday to Friday 9:00–18:30, Saturday 9:00–14:00). We're at 301 Borough High Street, SE1 1JH: about 2 minutes from Borough station and 8 minutes from London Bridge.
Can I get a COVID booster outside the active campaign?
NHS supply pauses outside JCVI windows. Private COVID vaccination is available in some UK clinics; we can signpost you if needed.
Can I have it at the same time as my flu jab?
Yes — co-administration is standard NHS practice. One jab in each arm; you save a trip and post-jab observation is shared.
Will it appear on my NHS record?
Yes, with your consent. The record updates within 24–48 hours and is visible to your GP and on your NHS app.
Related Services
Flu Vaccination
Free annual flu jab — can be given at the same visit as your COVID booster.
Learn moreSeasonal Vaccinations
Programme overview covering flu, COVID, and other seasonal jabs.
Learn moreNew Medicine Service
Free NHS pharmacist consultations for patients newly prescribed long-term medicines.
Learn moreGet your COVID booster
Walk in — no appointment needed — at 301 Borough High Street, 2 minutes from Borough station. Free for eligible adults until 31 January 2027, with your flu jab at the same visit if you need it.