COVID-19 vaccine - About the COVID-19 vaccine
Vaccinations save lives and they are an effective way to protect yourself from getting seriously ill. Vaccines for COVID-19 help protect you against the current types of COVID-19 viruses. Just like flu, the current type can change, so having a spring dose is the best way to protect yourself from getting seriously ill.
In Wales, we follow advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) on the use of different vaccines as part of vaccination programmes. You will be offered the most appropriate vaccine, which may be the same or different from the vaccines you have had before. You can find further information and see the patient information leaflet for current COVID-19 vaccines at the EMC website (external site).
All medicines and vaccines have passed strict safety standards for use in the UK and are very safe. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) are responsible for approving the use of medicines, including vaccines, and monitoring their safety. They have approved several vaccines for use in the UK as safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines. As with all medicines and vaccines, any reports of side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine are closely monitored and reviewed.
Why should I get the COVID-19 vaccination?
Like some other vaccines, levels of protection may begin to reduce over time. People who are at risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19 are offered a vaccination twice a year. These doses will help protect you for longer.
Having the vaccine can help to reduce the risk of you needing to go to hospital due to COVID-19 infection.
Why are vaccines important?
Vaccines are safe, effective and save lives.
Vaccines teach your immune system how to protect you from diseases. It’s much safer for your immune system to learn this through vaccination than by catching the diseases and trying to treat them.
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve had COVID-19 infection before? If so, how long should I wait before being vaccinated?
Yes. If you have already had COVID-19 this won’t always protect you against future infections, so you should still have the vaccine to make sure you are properly protected.
If you are unwell, it is better to wait until you have recovered before you have the vaccine. If you can’t attend your appointment, please cancel it and make a new appointment. Try to get the vaccine as soon as possible once you are well.
It is still important for you to get vaccinated if you are eligible for a vaccine.
Will the vaccine be free?
If you are eligible, the vaccine will be provided free through the NHS.
What should I do if you have already had COVID-19? If so, how long should I wait before being vaccinated?
If you have already had COVID-19 this won’t always protect you against future infections, so you should still have the vaccine.
If you are unwell, it is better to wait until you have recovered before you have the vaccine. If you can’t attend your appointment, please cancel it and make a new appointment. Try to get the vaccine as soon as possible once you are well.
It is still important for you to get vaccinated if you are eligible for a vaccine.
Will the vaccine be free?
If you are eligible, the vaccine will be provided free through the NHS.
Page last reviewed: 16th October 2025