Eastwood Health Pharmacy
Covid Vaccinations
During the pandemic, the NHS offered COVID-19 vaccines to everyone. But now, that’s changed. Between 1st April and 17th June 2025 Covid vaccinations will only be available on the NHS to prople those who meet the certain criteria. As a result, many people across the UK are no longer eligible for a free COVID-19 vaccine through the NHS, whether it’s their first dose or a booster.
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However, that has changed now. If you’re not eligible for the vaccine through the NHS, you can still protect yourself. Eastwood Health Pharmacy now offers private COVID-19 vaccinations. Our service is open to anyone aged 18 and over who isn’t covered under the NHS programme. It’s a simple and convenient way to stay protected against the virus.
FREE Covid Vaccinations 
The NHS offers free COVID-19 vaccinations to those who fit the following criteria (between 1st April and 17th June 2025):
  • People aged 75 and older
  • People living in care homes for the elderly 
  • Anyone aged 6 months to 74 years with a weakened immune system due to a health condition or treatment 
Book your COVID vaccination through the NHS website here. 
Do I get to choose my COVID-19 vaccine? 
You cannot choose which vaccine you have. There are a number of COVID-19 vaccines available in the UK, all of which meet high standards for safety, quality, and effectiveness. Most people can have any of the available vaccines, and you’ll be offered one that protects against different variants of COVID-19. We’ll make sure you receive the vaccine that’s right for your age and health. 
For further information regarding Covid-19, visit the NHS website. 
Who cannot have the COVID-19 vaccine? 
Most people who are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine can safely receive it. But for a few, some extra care is needed: 
  • If you're under 18, you may be offered specific types of the vaccine. 
  • Children under 12 will receive a smaller dose compared to adults and older children. 
  • If you’ve had a mild allergic reaction before (like a rash or swelling), you can still usually get the vaccine. Just make sure to inform the staff at your appointment. 
  • If you've experienced a severe allergic reaction in the past, you might need to get the vaccine at a hospital or specialist clinic, where you can be monitored closely. 
  • If you’re feeling really unwell or have a high fever, it’s best to wait until you're feeling better before getting vaccinated. 
If you're not sure, it's okay to ask. You can speak to your GP or talk to our vaccination team at the pharmacy. We're here to answer any
questions you may have.
Side Effects of the COVID-19 Vaccine 
Most people feel okay after the vaccine, but a few mild side effects are common and don’t last long. You might notice: 
  • A sore arm  
  • Feeling a bit tired 
  • A mild headache 
  • Aches or chills 
  • Flu-like symptoms 
If you or your child experience any side effects after the vaccine, it’s a good idea to rest and take paracetamol to feel more comfortable. Serious side effects are very rare, but if someone does have an allergic reaction, the vaccinator knows what to do and will treat it straight away. There have been a few rare cases of heart inflammation after the vaccine, but most people got better quickly with rest.
COVID-19 Vaccine Information