With winter fast approaching, it is time to think about booking your flu vaccine. The flu vaccine is the quickest, easiest way to protect not only yourself but also those around you. Find out who is eligible for the free flu vaccine in St Albans, as well as how you can get it at Verulam Pharmacy.
Why is the flu vaccine important?
The flu vaccine offers the most efficient protection against the most prevalent flu viruses. If you get the flu after being vaccinated, it is likely to be a milder case that does not last as long as it would if you were unvaccinated. It is important that you book your flu jab in Autumn – this is because it can take 10-14 days for your body to become immune. Also, the flu jab helps to protect not only yourself, but also those around you. This is especially important in the case of those who may be at higher risk of serious Covid and flu-related complications this winter.
Why is the flu vaccine more important than ever this year?
It is incredibly likely that hospitals will be under greater strain than normal this year, as a result of the combined pressure of seasonal flu and Covid. This means that you should be vaccinated against both, if possible, for the best protection.
Travel is opening back up again; if you are looking to travel during winter and beyond, you may need a PCR test before you jet off. You can get a PCR test, along with the documentation you need before you go, here:
Who is eligible for the free flu vaccine in St Albans?
If you meet a certain set of criteria set out by the NHS, you may be invited for a free flu vaccination. Currently, the free jabs are offered to:
– Anyone aged 50 or over
– Those with certain health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease
– Those in long-term residential care
– People who are pregnant
– Frontline social care and health workers
– Those who care for an at-risk individual (for example, an elderly person or someone with a disability that makes them high-risk).
Similarly, the free flu vaccine will also be offered to those who are, or live with someone who is, on the shielded patient list for those at risk of Covid-19.
Where can I get the flu vaccine in St Albans?
If you are eligible to receive the free NHS vaccine, we are here to help. We are currently offering the flu jab to those who need it in-store so that you can get ahead and protect yourself this season. You can book over the phone to get your jab at a time that suits your busy schedule. Of course feel free to get in touch if you need further information surrounding the vaccine.
If you are looking to stay as healthy as possible this season, why wait to protect yourself?
Call us to book your flu jab today!
Have a question or enquiry?
- Phone: 01727 833815
- Email: info@verulampharmacy.co.uk