JCVI – What the UK’s vaccine committee is doing right now

If you’ve ever wondered who decides which vaccines go into the NHS schedule, it’s the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation – the JCVI. They review data, weigh risks and benefits, and issue guidance that doctors, schools and public health officials follow. In plain English, they make sure you get the right shots at the right time.

How the JCVI creates its advice

The JCVI works with scientists, epidemiologists and clinicians to crunch the latest research. They look at how well a vaccine works, any side‑effects, and how it fits into the broader health picture. After the data review, they draft recommendations, which the UK government can adopt or adapt. This process is transparent – minutes and reports are published online, so you can see exactly what evidence drove each decision.

Recent JCVI decisions you should know about

One of the biggest headlines this year was the JCVI’s update on the COVID‑19 booster programme. They recommended a spring booster for adults over 50 and anyone with a weakened immune system, based on data showing a rise in infections among those groups. Another notable move was expanding the flu vaccine rollout to include all school‑age children, aiming to cut hospital pressure during the winter months.

Beyond COVID‑19 and flu, the JCVI also released new guidance on the HPV vaccine for boys, aligning it with the schedule for girls. This step helps protect more people from cervical and other HPV‑related cancers. The committee also reviewed the shingles vaccine for adults over 60, confirming its safety and effectiveness for broader use.

All these updates are reflected in the articles tagged ‘JCVI’ on our site. Each post breaks down the recommendation, what it means for you, and any next steps you might need to take – like booking an appointment or checking your eligibility.

So, why keep an eye on the JCVI tag? Because vaccine guidance can change quickly. A new variant, emerging safety data, or a shift in supply can prompt the committee to tweak its advice. By following the tag, you’ll get the latest, most reliable information without having to search through dense government reports.

Want to stay ahead? Subscribe to our newsletter, and we’ll ping you whenever the JCVI releases fresh guidance. It’s a simple way to make sure your family’s immunisation schedule stays on track.

Bottom line: the JCVI shapes the vaccines you receive, and our tag page gathers everything you need to understand their decisions. Check back often, and you’ll always be in the know about UK vaccine policy.