Flu is already at ‘moderate intensity’, according to weekly data from PHE, with 2.8 admissions per 100,0000 – this is twice as high as the previous week and ten times higher than this time last year.
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Flu jab: Should you have two vaccinations this winter?
While it’s not unusual for instances of flu to increase at the time of year – research from Boots found 55 percent of people have reported missing out on key Christmas moments due to flu – it’s a sign the virus is spreading.
According to health experts and officials, now is the time to consider taking action to help protect yourself against contracting it.
The most effective step you can take to protect yourself and your family against flu is to vaccinate against the virus.
As well as GP surgeries, the flu vaccine is available at a number of pharmacies and supermarkets – one being Boots.
Customers aged 11 years and above can access the private Boots Winter Flu Jab Service.
For customers aged up to 65, the flu jab protect against four strains of flu including H1N1 (swine flu) and H3N2, and costs £12.99.
For those aged 65+ the Boots Winter Flu Jab Service uses a different vaccine recommended for tis age group.
Flu can be serious for those more at risk of developing complications and these people are entitled to a free NHS flu jab.
These include those aged 65+, pregnant women and those with certain medical conditions including diabetes, asthma and heart disease.
Those eligible for a free NHS flu jab can also book an appointment for this to be administered at their local Boots pharmacy in England and Wales (65+, England only) rather than through their GP.
To get yourself and your family vaccinated this flu season at Boots:
1. Book an appointment as an individual or a group at www.boots.com/flujab
2. Receive an in-store pharmacist consultation and if you’re eligible for a vaccination you will receive the flu jab – taking approximately 15 minutes
3. Boots will inform your GP if you’ve accessed the NHS service
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Boots Pharmacist Janky Raja says: “Getting the flu vaccination remains the best way to protect not only yourself from flu, but your family, friends and colleagues too.
“Flu is very contagious and can be spread through coughing, sneezing or touching contaminated services.
“So, even if you are a generally fit and healthy person, it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself and others, especially when reports of cases are on the rise.
“You can book your appointment either in-store or online at www.boots.com/flujab at a time and location suitable for you.
“If you want any advice on the flu jab service, just speak to a member of our highly-trained pharmacy team who will be more than happy to help.”
Where else to get the flu jab
The flu jab is also available at Asda, Tesco, Lloyds Pharmacy and Superdrug.
Asda
The vaccine at Asda Pharmacy is £7 and booking are available now.
Superdrug
Superdrug is providing a walk-in vaccination service. The cost of the jab is £9.99.
Tesco
From October, vaccinations will be available at selected Tesco Pharmacy stores in England and Wales.
You’ll be bale to make an appointment to have one, or receive one straight away after filling in a short questionnaire.
It takes 15 minutes, during which the pharmacist will explain the process and answer any queries, and costs just £10.
Lloyds Pharmacy
The flu vaccine at Lloyds is just £11.50. The healthcare team at your local pharmacist will be able to tell you what’s right for you.
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