COVID-19 is still with us. For people age 60 years and older and anyone with an underlying medical condition or a weak immune system, COVID-19 can lead to severe illness, hospitalisation, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, and even death.
Vaccination provides the best available protection against serious illness.. This winter, updated Comirnaty (Pfizer) vaccines are available, adapted to give better protection against the COVID-19 strains currently circulating.
Who should get the COVID-19 vaccine in autumn/winter 2025/2026?
The National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) recommend a COVID-19 vaccine for the following groups:
- All aged 60 years and older
- All aged 18 years and older living in a long term care facility for older adults
- All aged 6 months and older with immunocompromise (weak immune system) associated with a suboptimal response to vaccination
- All aged 6 months and older with a medical condition associated with a higher risk of hospitalisation, severe disease or death due to COVID-19.
Additionally, anyone aged 18 years and older can choose to get a COVID-19 vaccine this autumn/winter, after a discussion with a healthcare provider.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women with underlying medical conditions or weak immune systems are recommended to get one COVID-19 vaccine dose during pregnancy. However, anyone who is pregnant can get a COVID-19 vaccine if they wish, following discussion with a healthcare provider. In pregnancy, a COVID-19 vaccine can be given at any time, but ideally should be given between 20 and 34 weeks of pregnancy.
Healthcare workers
The NIAC recommendations for healthcare workers have changed this autumn/winter. This is because HCWs aged less than 60 years and without an underlying health condition are at low risk of severe illness, and NIAC have updated their recommendations following a review of the evidence and international practice.
Healthcare workers aged 60 years and older or healthcare workers with underlying medical conditions, including a weak immune system, are at risk of severe COVID-19 infection and are recommended to get a COVID-19 vaccine in autumn/winter 2025/2026.
Any healthcare worker who wishes to receive a COVID-19 vaccine in autumn/winter 2025/2026 can do so.
Timing and protection
Wait at least 3 months after your last COVID-19 vaccine or infection before receiving another dose this autumn/winter. Protection takes about 14 days to develop. If you are also recommended to get a flu vaccine you can get both vaccines at the same time. It is safe, effective and convenient to get both vaccines together.
Where to get the vaccine
At GPs and community pharmacies. Some workplaces, including healthcare facilities, may also provide access. All recommended vaccines are free of charge.
For more information, direct people to www.hse.ie/covid19vaccine
Safety and side effects
The COVID-19 vaccine is very safe. Most side effects are mild and short-lived, such as sore arm, tiredness, headache or fever. Serious reactions, such as severe allergic reactions, are extremely rare. The vaccine is recommended by NIAC and approved by the EMA.
What about Novavax?
For those who cannot receive an mRNA vaccine, Nuvaxovid (Novavax) is the recommended alternative. However, Novavax is currently not available in Ireland. The HSE is working to obtain supplies, but there is no timeline for availability. People who require or prefer Novavax can call HSE Live (1800 700 700) to be added to a list and will be contacted if supplies become available.
Where can I get more information?
For more information speak to your GP or Pharmacist or visit Ā www.hse.ie/covid19vaccine