Seasonal Flu

Our teams are professionally trained to provide you with the highest standard of treatments and services, so every time you visit, you leave with a positive experience.

What is the Seasonal Flu Vaccination service? 

A flu vaccination protects and saves lives from influenza, an infectious disease. As the colder and bitter months approach, this increases the spread of the common disease. Therefore, it is recommended individuals receive a flu vaccination to prevent the spread, especially during ‘flu season’.  

At Allied Pharmacies, we offer the Seasonal Flu Vaccination under the NHS, however, it is important to check which pharmacy branch offers this service before booking. 

 

Who can access this service? 

The cohort eligible for free NHS vaccinations for influenza changes annually. For the upcoming flu season, beginning the 3rd of October 2024, the group of people able to receive a vaccination free of charge are:  

  • Those aged 65 years and over 
  • Those aged 18 years to under 65 years in clinical risk groups (as defined by the Green Book, Influenza Chapter 19)  
  • Those in long-stay residential care homes 
  • Carers in receipt of carer’s allowance, or those who are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person  
  • Close contacts of immunocompromised individuals  
  • Frontline workers in a social care setting without an employer led occupational health scheme including those working for a registered residential care or nursing home, registered domiciliary care providers, voluntary managed hospice providers and those that are employed by those who receive direct payments (personal budgets) or Personal Health budgets, such as Personal Assistants  

If you have experienced a serious allergic reaction to the flu vaccination or any of its contained ingredients, you will be excused from accessing this service. This also extends to those who have an egg allergy, as most flu vaccinations in the UK contain egg protein.  

 

Why is the Seasonal Flu Vaccination service important? 

Influenza can be a life-threatening illness so, it is important for individuals to visit their local pharmacy to receive the flu vaccination every year. Not only does this prevent themselves from catching this infectious disease, but it also protects others from being affected.  

 

Do I need to pay for this service? 

Individuals who qualify for the Seasonal Flu Vaccination service under the NHS, can receive the flu jab free of charge. 

 

How can a pharmacist help? 

At Allied Pharmacies, as well as providing patients with the flu vaccination, pharmacists can:  

  • Check if you need a vaccine  
  • Book you in for an appointment  
  • Check your existing appointments and appointment details  
  • Cancel any current appointments  

 

Where can I access this service? 

You can find an Allied Pharmacy that provides this service by entering your postcode above. This will give you with a list of nearby pharmacies with their addresses and opening hours. 

You can also look for an Allied Pharmacy here, where you will find contact details such as a phone number, email address and directions. This will enable you to contact your local pharmacy for any queries or information regarding our Seasonal Flu Vaccination service and more. 


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Seasonal Flu FAQ’s

What are the side effects of the flu vaccination?
After receiving the flu vaccination, you may experience some common side effects. These include pain or a sore feeling around the injected area, a slightly raised temperature, or an aching body. If you develop anaphylaxis after having the flu vaccination, the person who vaccinated you will be able to treat you immediately.
The Seasonal Flu Vaccination service is available at Allied Pharmacy to protect yourself and others from the flu. However, there is a possibility you may get the flu despite having the flu vaccination. If you do, the symptoms of the flu will not be severe and last long. For the flu vaccine to take effect, this can take up to 14 days.
It is best to be prepared and ensure you receive a flu vaccine by booking an appointment. You can do this on the NHS website. Alternatively, you can also walk into your local Allied Pharmacy for a flu jab but be aware that the pharmacy may be busy during peak flu season.
If you are unsure whether you meet any of the listed eligibility criteria, speak to a member of staff at your Allied Pharmacy. They will be able to advise and check this for you.

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