The South Eastern Trust has launched its Autumn Vaccination Programme with Flu and COVID-19 vaccination clinics now available across the Trust area.
Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Nursing, Midwifery, AHPs and Support Services, Professor David Robinson, is encouraging everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated this autumn to help protect themselves and those around them as we approach winter.
David said, “I get my flu vaccine every year and I would strongly encourage everyone who is eligible to do the same. Early autumn is a good time to get your vaccine and make sure you are protected before flu levels begin to rise over the winter months.
“Flu can make people very unwell and can result in hospital admission, including a stay in Intensive Care Unit and sadly, in some cases, it can be life-threatening.
“Getting vaccinated is not just about protecting yourself. It is also about protecting those who are vulnerable, the family and friends we spend time with and the patients we care for.”
David added, “We have seen the impact flu can have before and the evidence is clear. I would encourage everyone who is eligible to get their vaccine and play their part in protecting themselves and others this winter.”
South Eastern Trust, Lead Nurse, Vaccination Programme, Oriel Brown said vaccination was an important way of reducing the risk of serious illness from flu.
Oriel commented, “It is really important to get your flu vaccine as flu levels begin to increase at this time of year. The vaccine works by stimulating your body to develop antibodies which help your immune system respond to the virus. This means that if you are exposed to flu, you are less likely to develop a severe illness or require hospital treatment.
“The flu vaccine is not a live vaccine and cannot give you flu. Getting vaccinated is an important way of protecting yourself, your family and friends and those around you, particularly people who may be more vulnerable to serious illness.
“We would encourage everyone who is eligible to come forward for their vaccination ahead of winter. Before receiving a vaccination, everyone will have a health assessment to ensure it is appropriate for them to be vaccinated at that time. People may be advised to wait if they are unwell or have a temperature.”
Trust clinics are available for eligible adults aged 18 years and over who meet the eligibility criteria below:
- People aged 65 years and over who have missed or are unable to attend a GP vaccination appointment
- Adults aged 18 to 64 years in a clinical risk group
- Pregnant women
- Close contacts of people who are immunosuppressed
- High-risk poultry/avian and cattle/swine animal health workers
- ALL Health and Social Care Workers
- Other eligible adult groups as an alternative to GP Practice and community pharmacy
Online booking is available at: https://vaccinations.hscni.net/booking/welcome
A number of walk-in vaccination appointments are also available at Trust locations.
Walk-in clinics are available from:
Vaccination Centre, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald (Access via Main Entrance and follow signage)
Wednesday 7 October 2026 – 1.30 pm – 3.30 pm
Thursday 8 October 2026 – 1.30 pm – 3.30 pm
Lisburn Primary Care & Community Care Centre, Lagan Valley Hospital, Hillsborough Road, Lisburn
Friday 9 October 2026 – 10.00 am – 4.00 pm
Please bring your Health and Care Number with you when attending, where possible, as this will help speed up the vaccination process.