Every autumn a new strain of the flu virus starts making the rounds. For most healthy adults it means a rough week on the sofa, but for older people, young children and those with long-term conditions it can lead to hospital admissions and worse.
The flu vaccine is the best protection against a serious bout of flu. It is quick, usually has no side effects, and free on the NHS if you are eligible.
Who can get a free NHS flu jab?
In Millfield and across the local area, the NHS offers free flu vaccination to a number of groups each year.
- Adults aged 65 and over
- Pregnant women
- People with long-term health conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease
- Carers of vulnerable people
- Frontline health and social care workers
What about everyone else?
If you are not eligible for a free NHS vaccine you can still be protected. Our private flu jab is £16.99 and takes about ten minutes from start to finish. You can walk in during opening hours or book a time ahead.
When is the best time to book?
Ideally early autumn, September through November. That gives your immune system time to build up before flu really starts to circulate.
Getting the jab early in the season means you are protected before the first wave. It is free if you are eligible, and £16.99 if you are not.
What to expect on the day
Bring a short-sleeved top or something you can roll up. The vaccine goes into your upper arm, takes seconds to administer, and you can carry on with your day straight after. Most people feel nothing more than a slightly sore arm for a day or two.
