Reviewed by The Wellness Team. Last reviewed October 2026.
A private COVID-19 vaccination is the straightforward option if you want a booster but do not qualify for the free seasonal programme, or you cannot get an appointment that fits your schedule. It is a single injection, takes a few minutes, and as of October 2026 this autumn's updated vaccine is available. Message us on WhatsApp and we can usually arrange it the same day.
Can I get a private COVID vaccine today?
Yes. A same-day in-person appointment at our Marylebone clinic includes a short consultation with the doctor, the vaccination, and time to raise anything else while you are there. If you want to talk through whether a booster is right for you first, a phone or video consultation can settle that in minutes, and the doctor can then book you in for the jab.
The injection itself takes seconds and goes into the upper arm. Most people are in and out within 15 to 20 minutes, including a brief wait afterwards as a routine precaution.
Who should have a COVID booster in autumn 2026?
COVID-19 still circulates year-round in the UK, with new variants such as Stratus and Cicada driving waves in 2026, and it remains most dangerous for older adults and people with weakened immune systems. As of October 2026, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation advises an autumn booster for:
- Adults aged 75 and over
- Residents in care homes for older adults
- People aged 6 months and over who are immunosuppressed
If you are not in those groups you can still choose to top up your protection privately, particularly if you are over 65, have a long-term condition, live with someone vulnerable, or have an important trip or event coming up. Protection from previous doses fades over months, so a booster restores strong protection against severe illness for the winter. If you are trying to work out whether what you have now is COVID, our guide to the Stratus and Cicada variants covers current symptoms.
What are the side effects of the COVID vaccine?
Most people have a sore arm for a day or two and nothing else. Feeling briefly tired, achy or feverish the next day is common and settles on its own with rest and paracetamol. Serious reactions are very rare. The doctor will ask about your allergy and vaccination history before giving the jab, and you are asked to wait briefly afterwards as standard practice.
How much does a private COVID vaccine cost?
As of October 2026, an in-person appointment at 10 Portman Square, Marylebone costs £220, which covers the consultation with the doctor and the vaccination in one visit. If you would like to discuss it first, a phone consultation costs £59 and a video consultation costs £150.
There are no hidden fees and no membership required. WhatsApp us with the day you want and we will confirm a time, usually within minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have the COVID and flu vaccines at the same appointment?
Yes. Giving both at the same visit, one in each arm, is routine practice and does not reduce how well either vaccine works. Mention it when you book and we will allow time for both.
I had COVID recently. When can I have the vaccine?
Wait until you are fully recovered and, as a rule of thumb, around four weeks after the infection. Vaccinating while acutely unwell is avoided partly so any side effects are not confused with the illness itself.
Do I need a booster if I had one last year?
Protection wanes over months, and as of October 2026 this autumn's vaccine is updated for currently circulating variants, so last year's dose will not give the same protection through this winter.
I am pregnant. Can I have the COVID vaccine?
COVID vaccination in pregnancy has a good safety record and protects both you and your baby. The doctor will confirm the most suitable vaccine and timing for you at the appointment.
Will the vaccine stop me catching COVID?
It greatly reduces your chance of severe illness, hospital admission and complications, and it reduces the chance of catching it at all for a period. You can still catch COVID after vaccination, but it is usually much milder.
Sources: UK Health Security Agency Green Book, chapter 14a (COVID-19); Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation advice on the autumn 2026 COVID-19 vaccination programme; NICE guidance on COVID-19.
Reviewed by The Wellness Team.