Winter 2026: Why Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines Matter with PKD
Living with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) means taking steps to look after your health and protect your kidney function. As winter approaches, getting your recommended flu and COVID-19 vaccinations is an important way to reduce your risk of serious illness.
Flu and COVID-19 can both cause significant illness, and infections can put additional strain on your body, particularly if you have reduced kidney function or a weakened immune system.
Flu viruses change each year, while protection from COVID-19 vaccination fades over time. That's why seasonal vaccinations are offered to eligible people ahead of winter.
At a glance: are you eligible?
| Vaccine | Who qualifies? |
|---|---|
| Flu | Everyone with PKD, regardless of age or stage of kidney function. |
| COVID-19 | People aged 75 and over, residents in care homes for older adults, and people aged six months and over who are immunosuppressed. This includes organ transplant recipients. |
Flu vaccine
If you have PKD, you're eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine because chronic kidney disease is included in the clinical risk groups. This applies to adults of all ages and regardless of your stage of kidney function.
The flu vaccine is updated each year to protect against the strains expected to circulate. It's recommended annually to reduce your risk of serious illness and complications.
Find out more about flu vaccination
COVID-19 vaccine
Having PKD alone does not automatically make you eligible for a free seasonal COVID-19 vaccine. If you have PKD, you may qualify if your immune system is weakened by certain treatments or medical circumstances. This includes kidney transplant recipients taking anti-rejection medication and people receiving certain immunosuppressive treatments, such as prolonged courses of systemic steroids.
Eligibility depends on the specific treatment and circumstances, so check with your GP, pharmacist or kidney doctor if you're unsure.
Find out more about COVID-19 vaccination
How to get your vaccinations
If you're eligible, you can:
- Book online: Flu vaccine | COVID-19 vaccine
- Use the NHS App to book an appointment.
- Find a local pharmacy or walk-in service: Flu vaccination | COVID-19 vaccination
You can have both vaccines at the same appointment if you're eligible for both. You don't need to wait for an invitation before booking your COVID-19 vaccination.
The last date to get your flu vaccine is 31 March 2027, and your COVID-19 vaccine is 31 January 2027. It's best to get vaccinated as soon as possible to help protect yourself over winter.
Further information by Country
If you would like to speak to us about what support we can offer you or a loved one, please visit PKD Support or contact us today and speak to a member of our team.
Booster, Vaccine, Coronavirus, flu
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