Why is the Flu Jab important?

Flu can lead to serious complications, particularly for individuals in vulnerable categories such as seniors over 65 and pregnant women. As we age, or undergo life changes, our immune systems can be weakened, increasing the risk of infections and complications from flu. A flu vaccination serves as a robust shield, significantly reducing the risk of complications that could result in a trip to the hospital..

Flu vaccinations are an important part of public health efforts to control the spread of the virus each year. By getting vaccinated, you’re not only protecting yourselves, but also contributing to creating something called “herd immunity”, which helps to safeguard the people who can’t receive the flu jab - including newborns and people with certain medical conditions.

This year, in light of the new COVID-19 variant BA.2.86, the vaccination program for both flu and COVID-19 has been accelerated. From September 11th, high-risk groups will be prioritised for COVID-19 vaccinations, in order to maximise our protection ahead of the winter months.

Where can I get the Flu Jab?

It’s easier than you think to get the flu or COVID-19 jab, particularly if you’re in one of the vulnerable communities. Booking your flu jab at a community pharmacy or local chemist is straightforward, and offers numerous advantages, especially for seniors and pregnant women:

Accessibility: Your nearest chemist should be conveniently situated in your neighbourhood - you can usually reach a pharmacy by foot, or with a short drive to your nearest high street. Avoiding long journeys and crowded places is particularly important during flu season, so a trip to your GP might not be at the top of your list. Pop into your local pharmacy today, and you’ll find a safe and accessible option for getting vaccinated.

Short Wait Times: Another advantage of a pharmacy near you is that they typically offer very efficient services, which means a shorter wait time compared to hospitals or medical clinics. You can get the phone number of your nearest pharmacy using our postcode search tool, and give your local pharmacy team a call to check when would be a good time to pop in for a vaccination, so you can book your flu jab at a time that suits you.

Supportive Staff: The pharmacists at your nearest chemist are trained to provide friendly, supportive guidance for all kinds of minor ailments and medical issues. Your pharmacy team will understand your unique needs, and will strive to provide a caring experience throughout the vaccination process for pregnant women and people over the age of 65, providing personalised and compassionate care to their communities. They will be able to answer any questions you may have about the flu jab, and ensure that the vaccination is safe and appropriate for your individual health needs.

This winter, pregnant women, healthcare workers and adults over the age of 65 are also among those eligible for the COVID-19 jab. If you’re entitled to an early jab, you’ll receive an invitation from local providers to book your appointment, which should make the process even easier.

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Whether you’re over 65 or expecting, prioritising both flu and COVID-19 jabs has become essential. The vaccines are safe and effective ways to shield yourself from potentially severe health complications - so make a note to visit your local pharmacy from September 11th, to protect yourself, your family and your community.