26-Jan-2026

Introduction
Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and others from serious infectious diseases. While many people receive vaccines in childhood, protection from some illnesses can reduce over time, and new vaccines may be recommended as health risks change.

At Swillington Pharmacy, we support our local community by providing clear, reliable information about vaccinations and NHS services. This article explains why keeping your vaccinations up to date is important at every stage of life and how it supports both personal and public health.

How Vaccinations Protect You

Vaccines work by helping your immune system recognise and fight infections before they cause serious illness. Some vaccines provide long-term protection, while others require booster doses to maintain effectiveness.

Keeping vaccinations up to date helps to:

• Reduce the risk of severe illness
• Lower the chance of complications
• Support quicker recovery if you do become unwell

Vaccination is a preventative step that protects your health over the long term.

Why Protection Can Reduce Over Time

For some illnesses, immunity can fade gradually. This means a vaccine received years ago may not provide the same level of protection today.

Reasons protection may reduce include:

• Natural changes in the immune system as we age
• The emergence of new virus strains
• Time passing since the last vaccine dose

Booster vaccinations help refresh your immune response and maintain protection.

Protecting Vulnerable People in the Community

Keeping your vaccinations up to date does more than protect you. It also helps protect people who may be more vulnerable to serious illness.

This includes:

• Older adults
• Babies and young children
• People with long-term health conditions
• Individuals with weakened immune systems

High vaccination levels reduce the spread of infection and support wider community health.

Vaccinations Across Different Life Stages

Vaccination needs can change throughout life. Different vaccines may be recommended depending on age, health, and lifestyle.

For example:

• Children receive routine vaccinations as part of the national programme
• Adults may need boosters to maintain protection
• Older adults may be offered seasonal vaccines

Recommendations follow guidance aligned with NHS standards and may change over time.

Common Reasons People Fall Behind

Many people miss vaccinations unintentionally. Common reasons include:

• Not realising booster doses are needed
• Changes in eligibility or vaccination guidance
• Busy schedules or difficulty accessing appointments

Community pharmacy services help make vaccinations more accessible and easier to keep up to date.

How to Check If Your Vaccinations Are Up to Date

If you are unsure about your vaccination status, a healthcare professional can help.

You may be advised to:

• Review your vaccination record
• Discuss your health history and risk factors
• Ask about recommended boosters or seasonal vaccines

This ensures advice is personalised and appropriate to your needs.

The Role of Community Pharmacies

Community pharmacies play an important role in improving access to vaccinations across the UK. They offer:

• Convenient local appointments
• Trusted advice from trained professionals
• Support that fits around everyday life

At Swillington Pharmacy, our focus is on helping the local community stay protected through safe, professional, and approachable care.

Conclusion

Keeping your vaccinations up to date is an important part of protecting your health and supporting the wellbeing of those around you. As immunity can reduce over time and health risks change, regular reviews help ensure you remain protected.

If you are unsure whether your vaccinations are current, speaking with a trusted local pharmacy such as Swillington Pharmacy can provide clear guidance and reassurance, helping you make informed decisions about your health at every stage of life.