Sandwell Pharmacy Group
Health Hub · Vaccinations

Can You Have the Flu and Covid Jab Together? (Yes — Here’s Why You Should)

By the Sandwell Pharmacy Group team · Clinically reviewed by Jeetender Singh Sahota, Superintendent Pharmacist (GPhC 2048691) · Updated August 2026 · 2 min read
Clinician giving a vaccination into a patient’s upper arm
Vaccinations are given into the upper arm and take a couple of minutes.

Every autumn we're asked the same question at the counter: 'Can I have both jabs at once, or do I need to space them out?' The answer is clear — flu and Covid-19 vaccines can be given together at the same appointment, one in each arm, and the NHS actively encourages it.

Across the Sandwell Pharmacy Group, 'Flu + Covid-19 together' is a single booking option, and it's what most of our dual-eligible patients choose.

What the evidence shows

Co-administration has been studied extensively since 2021. The findings: immune responses to both vaccines remain strong when given together, and side effects are broadly the same as having either alone — a sore arm or two, and perhaps a day of feeling slightly under par. No waiting period between the vaccines is needed in either direction.

Vaccination being given into a patient’s upper arm
A quick injection into the upper arm — most people are in and out within ten minutes.

Why one visit beats two

Beyond the obvious convenience, there's a quieter benefit: completion. People who plan to 'come back for the second one' sometimes never do — winter arrives, life intervenes, and they face the peak half-protected. One appointment closes the loop.

Timing the combined appointment

Flu and Covid-19 appointments across the Sandwell Pharmacy Group both start on 1 October, so co-administration slots are available from day one — comfortably ahead of the winter peak. Book online in under a minute: our eligibility checker confirms which NHS jabs you qualify for and books whichever combination fits.

Book both in one visit across the Sandwell Pharmacy Group

1 Lyng Lane, West Bromwich B70 7RW · Mon–Fri 8:30am–6pm, Sat 9am–1pm · 0121 500 5756

Book both in one visit →

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to have flu and Covid vaccines at the same time?
Yes — studies show strong immune responses and no meaningful increase in side effects when the two are co-administered. The NHS recommends it where you're eligible for both.
Which arm do the jabs go in?
Usually one vaccine in each arm, which minimises soreness. The vaccinator will check your preference on the day.
When can I book both together?
From 1 October across the Sandwell Pharmacy Group, when the flu and Covid-19 programmes overlap. Select 'Flu + Covid-19 together' when booking online.

Related reading

Private Flu Jab for £30: Who It’s For and Why It’s Worth It →Travel Vaccinations in West Bromwich: Your Pre-Trip Checklist →All health articles →

More from the Sandwell Pharmacy Group

NHS flu & Covid vaccinations →Travel vaccinations & clinic →All services across the Sandwell Pharmacy Group →Contact us & opening hours →
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