Flu Jab Service
What is the flu jab?
The flu jab is a vaccine that helps protect against the influenza virus. For most people, it’s given as a quick injection, while children usually receive it as a nasal spray. Having the flu vaccine is the most effective way to reduce your risk of catching the flu. Although it’s still possible to contract a strain not covered by the jab, the vaccine can lessen the severity of symptoms and help you recover more quickly than if you hadn’t been vaccinated. You can book your flu jab through your GP or at your local pharmacy offering a Flu Vaccination Service. At Pimhole Pharmacy, we strongly encourage everyone who is eligible to protect themselves and their loved ones by getting the flu jab this season.
Who should have the flu vaccine?
For 2020, it is strongly recommended that everyone who can receives the flu vaccine – especially those who were shielding during the coronavirus lockdown.
The vaccine not only helps protect you from catching the flu but also reduces the risk of passing it on to your family and others around you. By getting vaccinated, you’re also helping to reduce pressure on the NHS during the busy flu season.
It is safe to have the flu jab while pregnant or if you are currently taking antibiotics.
Who shouldn’t have the flu jab?
Most people can have a flu vaccine. However, there are a couple of exceptions:
- Delay if you have a fever or are unwell.
- Avoid if you had a severe allergic reaction to a flu jab or its ingredients.
- Check with GP if you have an egg allergy.
- Consult doctor if on immune-suppressing medication.
- Speak to GP if you have a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome.
- Not for children under 6 months.
Who is eligible for a free flu vaccination on the NHS?
The flu vaccine is free for people in high-risk groups. You qualify for a free vaccine if you are in one of the following categories:
- Adults over the age of 65
- Primary school children
- Children aged between 2 and 3 on 31 August 2020
- Frontline health or social care workers
- Pregnant women
- People with certain medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes or chronic heart disease.
