This autumn you can have the annual NHS flu vaccination from 3^rd October at VSM Pharmacy.

Who Can Have The NHS Flu Vaccine?

The NHS will give the annual flu vaccine to people who:

• Are 65 years of age or over
• Live in a care home
• Are pregnant
• Care for an elderly or disabled person
• Lives with a certain long-term health condition
• Live with someone who has a weakened immune system (because that person would be at risk if they caught flu)

What Type Of Health Conditions Make You Eligible for the Flu Vaccine?

If you live with a condition like COPD, Cystic Fibrosis or asthma you should have a vaccination. Catching flu could affect your breathing more than usual and you could become quite ill.

The vaccine is also recommended for anyone with a heart condition.

Other conditions include:

• Diabetes
• Chronic kidney disease
• Hepatitis
• Liver cirrhosis
• Parkinson’s
• Motor Neurone disease
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Cerebral Palsy
• Addison’s disease
• Sickle cell disease
• HIV or Aids

The NHS will also give the flu vaccination to:

• people who have had their spleen removed
• obese people with a body mass index of 40 or more.
• People with learning disabilities

Is Flu a Winter Virus?

Although you can catch flu at any time of year it tends to be more prevalent during the winter months. Flu is a viral illness. The virus can change over time which is why regular booster vaccinations are recommended.

What are the Symptoms of Flu?

The most common symptoms of flu are a high temperature with aches and pains. You may also have a headache, sore throat and a general feeling of tiredness.

Other symptoms include feeling like you’ve got a cold with a runny nose and sneezing. Some people also experience diarrhoea, sickness, loss of appetite and difficulty going to sleep.

The symptoms usually appear between 1 and 3 days after you catch the virus. It then might take a week before you feel better. Some people continue to feel tired for another week or two.

Does the Vaccine Work Immediately?

No. It normally takes around 14 days for the vaccine to work. You can still catch flu after the vaccination. But there will be less risk of complications. The flu will be milder, and it shouldn’t last too long.

What Are Common Side-Effects?

You may have a slight temperature and feel achy like you do when you have flu. Your arm might also feel heavy and sore. However, these side effects normally disappear quickly.  

Are There Any Serious Side-Effects of the Flu Vaccine?

Serious side effects are rare with a flu vaccination. If you are allergic to the vaccine, you will have symptoms of anaphylaxis within minutes of the injection. That’s why you’re always asked to stay behind for a few minutes. If you do have an allergic reaction staff are trained to begin treatment immediately.  

How Do I Get The Flu Vaccination From VSM Pharmacy?

All you need to do is make an appointment. You can do this over the telephone by calling us at 01276 21002. You can also come into the pharmacy and speak to a member of staff. In case you can’t book you can come in. If we aren’t busy, we might be able to give you the vaccine there and then.

If I Am Not Eligible For The NHS Vaccine, Can I Have A Private Vaccination?

Yes. If you don’t qualify for the NHS flu vaccination you can have it done privately here at the pharmacy. The price is £20.99 which is cheaper than a lot of high street chains. Book online, give us a call or pop in and make an appointment.