FAQs

Please see answers to commonly asked questions below. 

Can an appropriate adult e.g. a carer or healthcare professional book on their behalf?

Yes. However they will need to provide your NHS number (on your letter), your postcode and date of birth.

If a person does not have capacity to consent who can consent on their behalf?

Your Next of Kin or dedicated carer can provide consent.

Will the vaccine be available in pharmacies such as Lloyds?

Local vaccination services will be available in some pharmacies in early 2021.

If I don’t have access to transport, will you come to me?

Those who are housebound because they are immobile will be vaccinated in their home. However if you are able to use a bus/taxi you will be expected to make your own way to a vaccination centre.

If I live with my parents who are in a vulnerable/shielded category, can I have the vaccine?

People aged 16 or over who live with immunosuppressed adults can have the COVID-19 vaccination alongside priority group 6 (people aged 16 to 65 who have a clinical condition that puts them at higher risk). 

Will key workers, such as teachers and taxi drivers be offered the vaccine?

Not at this stage unless they fall into one of the priority groups. The priority groups are reviewed nationally based on advice from the Joint Vaccination and Immunisations Committee (JVIC). Where necessary, other groups will be invited for a vaccination.

If I am vaccinated can I stop wearing a mask/social distancing?

No. Social distancing and the wearing of masks is still important as it is unclear if the vaccination prevents the transmittion from one person to another so you may still pass it on even if you are not personally affected. 

I'm not in a vulnerable group, can I pay privately for a vaccination?

No.

Can I have the flu vaccine at the same time?

No. You must have your flu vaccine either before the first COVID-19 vaccination dose or after you have had the second dose. 

Is the vaccine suitable for vegans?

There are no animal products listed in the ingredients. 

My autistic son is terrified of needles. Are there non-intravenous options such as a nasal spray or pill? 

Not at this time.

Do you have to have a test for COVID-19 before you have a vaccine?

No. You are not required to have a test prior to your vaccination, however if you are sumptomatic you must not attend the appointment. Please cancel as soon as possible if you know you can not attend. 

I am symptomatic but not had a test, can I still have the vaccine?

If you are symptomatic, you should stay at home and self isolate for 10 days or until you have had a negative test result. Do NOT attend a vaccination centre if you have symptoms. 

Does the vaccine cure COVID if you are positive? 

No. You will also not be allowed the vaccine if you have COVID-19 symptoms or have tested positive the last 28 days. 

Will my GP / hospital team know I have been vaccinated? 

Your GP record will be updated via the national system once your vaccine is given. If you are under the care of a consultant at a hospital, they will also be able to see that you have had the vaccine. 

Where will my data be stored? 

Your vaccination details will be held on the national database of vaccination records. This is the same database that flu vaccinations and other immunisation programme such as BCG and meningitis vaccinations are recorded on. 

Is it a live vaccine? 

No. The vaccine is created by replicating the proteins inside the virus artifically. You will not be given any amount of the live virus. 

Will I be given proof that I have been vaccinated? Can I show my employer? 

Once you have been vaccinated, you will recieve a text message /email to confirm you have had the vaccine.