As autumn approaches in the coming months, now is the time to start thinking about getting the annual flu jab. This year, the free jab will be offered to more people amidst concerns around the still-present coronavirus.
The NHS flu programme in England typically offers the flu vaccine to those over the age of 65, pregnant women and those with existing health conditions or weakened immune systems. These groups will remain a high priority this year, while the programme will also be extended to reach out to more people.
In a typical winter, flu is one of the biggest health concerns for many older and vulnerable people. With the additional threat of coronavirus this year, the public are being advised to take extra care to avoid both of these diseases. The government hopes for as many people as possible to receive the flu jab to reduce the risk of caregivers and healthcare workers coming under immense pressure.
We will be holding our Flu Clinics over the next few months. Due to the current COVID-19 situation, they will operate in a slightly different way to previous years to protect our patients and staff and details will be provided when you are invited to attend.
These clinics will by invitation only and Patients will receive a letter from us requesting you to call the surgery and agree your appointment dates/times.
Our first flu clinic for the over 65’s is scheduled for Saturday 26th September (this now fully booked) and we will be holding further clinics on 17th & 31st October.
Enough clinics will be arranged to ensure all those who need access to the flu vaccine will be offered the opportunity to have it but please wait to be contacted as we work through the Patient list to identify all those who need it as a priority.
External websites for further information:
- Department of Health and Social Care and Public Health England – National Flu Immunisation Programme 2020 – 2021
- Who should have the flu vaccine? – NHS UK
- Flu vaccine overview – NHS UK
- Children’s flu Vaccine – NHS UK
- Flu vaccine FAQs – NHS UK
- Vaccination tips for parents – NHS UK