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A guide to COVID-19 vaccination

Some people are at greater risk of serious illness from COVID-19. This resource explains what the COVID-19 vaccine is, and how to get it.

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a very infectious respiratory disease caused by a virus. It is more serious in older people and those with certain health conditions. People at greater risk who catch COVID-19 are more likely to need hospital treatment.

Why do some people need to have the vaccine?

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.