THE UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and NHS England in the North West is calling on those celebrating Diwali to come forward for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations if they are eligible so they can be protected both during Diwali and winter.

The vaccines take up to 2 weeks to provide maximum protection, so getting vaccinated early will help reduce the risk of severe disease in time for Diwali on:- October 20 and ensure you have a safe and healthy celebration.

If you are eligible, it is because you are at greater risk of serious illness from flu and COVID-19 and of ending up in hospital.

Flu and COVID-19 spread more when we spend more time indoors. If you are in 1 of the groups who is eligible for vaccination against flu and COVID-19, ensure you get your vaccines. This will help your Diwali celebrations stay on plan, whether that’s sharing delicious meals, lighting lamps or exchanging gifts with friends and family.

Vaccination teams across England are working to protect millions most at risk of getting seriously ill this winter by building immunity ahead of December and January, when hospitalisations for respiratory viruses typically rise. Taking up the vaccines means you have taken steps to minimise the chances of spreading these infections or even experiencing serious complications from them.

For the 1st time, those eligible for winter vaccines have been able to book appointments since 1 September 2025, allowing more people to book their flu or COVID-19 vaccine appointments in advance.

Those aged 65 and over, under 65s in clinical risk groups, care home residents and carers, close contacts of those who are immunosuppressed, frontline health and social care workers, as well as children and pregnant women are eligible for the free flu vaccines from the NHS. The COVID-19 vaccine is also available to those aged 75 and over, individuals who are immunosuppressed, and residents in care homes for older adults.

People aged 75-79 and pregnant women are also eligible for an RSV vaccination, with the maternal vaccine not only protecting the mother but passing protection through the placenta for newborns in their first few months, when they are most at risk of severe illness from RSV.

Following advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), COVID-19 vaccinations are also available to adults aged 75 and over, older adult care home residents, and people who are immunosuppressed.   

Children are also eligible for a free flu vaccine, which is offered as a free, quick and easy nasal spray, and are advised to take up the vaccine ahead of the festivities. Younger children are particularly vulnerable to flu and every winter, thousands of children are hospitalised, with children under the age of 5 years having one of the highest rates of hospital admissions due to flu compared to other age groups. By getting vaccinated, your child not only protects themselves, but also those more vulnerable around them, including babies, grandparents, and people with weakened immune systems.

Parents of school-aged children are urged to ensure their children’s school vaccination consent forms are completed, and that eligible pre-schoolers, 2-and-3-year-olds, are booked for an appointment at their GP practice. Children in Reception to Year 11 will be offered the vaccine in schools by immunisation teams up and down the country.

Any child aged 6 months or over who has a health condition that puts them at increased risk from flu should have a vaccine every year. Children who can’t have the nasal spray for medical or faith reasons should request an injected flu vaccine instead.

Dr Merav Kliner, Regional Deputy Director – UKHSA North West, said:- “The Diwali season is a cherished time when families and friends come together to celebrate and exchange greetings. However, it also coincides with the start of winter when flu and COVID-19 cases typically rise. We strongly encourage members of the Hindu, Jain and Sikh communities to prioritise their health by getting vaccinated if eligible, helping them to stay winter-proof. Aside from protecting yourself, ensure your children are vaccinated too against flu. Each winter thousands of children require treatment in hospital for flu or its complications. Many of these episodes can be prevented by a simple vaccine. This year children can also get the nasal flu vaccine at a participating pharmacy that offers the NHS children's flu vaccination. On top of helping to keep your child healthy, the flu vaccine also helps stop the spread of flu in the family and wider community – helping to protect those who are more vulnerable and the elderly such as grandparents. So, help protect yourself and your loved ones this Diwali by checking your eligibility and adding the flu vaccine to your Diwali preparation checklist."

Dr Linda Charles Ozuzu, Regional Director of Commissioning for NHS England in the North West, said:- “With flu and COVID-19 cases already rising in our communities, getting vaccinated is vital in protecting yourself against viruses, and this is extra important if you are coming together with friends and families to celebrate festivals like Diwali. It can take up to two weeks for protection to kick in so if you are eligible for either or both vaccines and have celebrations planned, you can easily book in today on the NHS website or check out our walk-in finder for local drop-in centres near you.”

Kirit Mistry at the South Asian Health Action, said:- "As we prepare to celebrate the Festival of Lights, it's important to prioritize our health and well-being, especially with the winter months ahead. Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to stay healthy as we come together to spend time with families and friends. Vaccinations not only keep us safe from serious illness but also help ensure a joyful and sickness-free Diwali. Let's come together, stay healthy, and celebrate this festival of lights with peace of mind."

Booked appointments and walk-in sessions are now available across local pharmacies, GP practices and community clinic drop-in centres across the country and you can book an appointment via the NHS App, your local GP practice, online at www.nhs.uk/bookflu or www.nhs.uk/bookcovid, or by calling:- 119.   

You can also find your nearest drop-in service or using the NHS walk-in finder.