Information for adults

Who can get a COVID-19 vaccine

COVID-19 vaccination is safe and effective. It gives you the best protection against COVID-19.

The programme is directed by the recommendations proposed by the Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). The following groups will be offered a COVID-19 vaccine in spring 2024:

You may be able to get a seasonal COVID-19 vaccine in spring 2024 if you're at increased risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19. For example, this may be due to a health condition or your age. Manx Care will contact you if your health record suggests you may be eligible.

If you develop a new health condition or start treatment that severely weakens your immune system, your specialist may advise you to get a COVID-19 vaccine sooner. Speak to your specialist for more information.

You can opt in or opt out of the vaccination programme.

Types of COVID-19 vaccine

Eligible people will be given a booster dose of mRNA vaccine. These vaccines have been updated since the original vaccines and target different COVID-19 variants.

They have all met strict standards of safety, quality and effectiveness.

Most people can have any of the COVID-19 vaccines and will be offered a vaccine that gives protection from more than one type of COVID-19.

You cannot choose which vaccine you have.

At your vaccination appointment

Arrive no longer than 5 minutes before your appointment.

When you go to your appointment, you will need to:

  • bring photo ID confirming date of birth
  • wear loose clothing to make sure the vaccine can be administered to the upper arm

After you get the vaccine

You can continue with your day as normal as long as you feel well.

Bringing someone with you for support

You can bring someone with you to your appointment for support.

COVID-19 vaccines efficacy

If you're at increased risk of severe COVID-19, getting a seasonal COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others. Research has shown the vaccine helps:

  • reduce your risk of getting seriously ill or dying from COVID-19
  • reduce your risk of catching and spreading COVID-19
  • protect against different strains (variants) of COVID-19

Seasonal vaccines are offered because protection fades over time.

A vaccine helps give you good protection from becoming seriously ill or needing to go to hospital if you catch COVID-19.

There is a chance you might still get or spread COVID-19 even if you have a vaccine, so it's important to follow advice about how to avoid catching and spreading COVID-19.

COVID-19 vaccines and side effects

The COVID-19 vaccines can cause some side effects, but not everyone gets them.

Find out more about COVID-19 vaccine side effects and safety.

More information about the COVID-19 vaccines

The COVID-19 vaccines offered do not contain animal products, including egg.

Find out more about the COVID-19 vaccines approved for use in the spring programme, including their ingredients:

Read the guide to the use of human and animal products in vaccine on GOV.UK

You can opt in or opt out of the vaccination programme.

Out of season vaccinations

Additional vaccines for people with a severely weakened immune system

If you develop a new health condition or start treatment that severely weakens your immune system, you may need additional protection.

Your specialist will assess whether you need an additional vaccine. They will make a referral and advise on the best timing for vaccination around your planned treatment. Speak to your specialist for more information.

Seasonal COVID-19 vaccine – spring 2024

You may be able to get a seasonal COVID-19 vaccine in spring 2024 if you’re at increased risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19. For example, this may be due to a health condition or your age.

How to get a seasonal COVID-19 vaccine

Manx Care will contact you if your health record suggests you may be eligible.

When available, there may be different ways you can get a COVID-19 seasonal vaccine:

  • booking online
  • Eligible persons will be invited to attend a vaccine appointment
  • through your care home
  • call the Vaccination team on 111
  • email the Vaccination Team: Vaccinations@gov.im

You can opt in or opt out of the vaccination programme.