Getting the flu vaccine is more important than ever before!

At Arkle Pharmacy we are now providing the flu vaccine service for the people of Upper Holloway, and the surrounding areas, to keep you as healthy as possible.

What Is The Flu Jab?

The flu jab is a vaccine to protect against the Influenza Virus.

The vast majority of people receive this vaccination as an injection or jab administered at the top of the arm. However, young children usually receive the vaccine as a nasal spray.

The flu vaccine is, without question, the most effective way to prevent catching the flu. Nonetheless, there is still the possibility of catching a strain of the flu virus that wasn’t included in the vaccine. However, if you do catch an undetected strain of the virus, you’re still provided with some level of sufficient protection that will probably help you recover quicker than if you hadn’t received the vaccine.

You can get the flu vaccine in Upper Holloway by visiting us at Arkle Pharmacy!

We encourage everyone who can get the flu vaccine this season, it has never been more important.

Who Is Eligible For A Free Flu Vaccine?

The flu vaccine is free on the NHS for people in high-risk groups.

You will qualify for a free flu vaccine if you are in one of the following categories:

– Adults over 65
– Primary school children
– Children aged between 2 and 3 on 31 August 2021
– Frontline health or social care workers
– Pregnant women
– People with specific medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or chronic heart disease.

You may not be eligible to receive the vaccine if:

– You are currently unwell with a fever.
– If you have an egg allergy.

Our pharmacists will check for you to see if you qualify for a flu vaccination on the NHS.

If you don’t qualify for a free injection, you can still receive the flu vaccine jab privately. Getting your Flu Vaccine directly from your pharmacist will save you and the GP surgery time during the busy pandemic period.

Should I have the vaccination?

For this season, it is recommended that everyone gets vaccinated  – especially those of you who were shielding or forced isolating during the coronavirus lockdown.

Having the flu jab will not only help protect you against virus infection but will also aid in preventing you from infecting your family and friends,  as well as helping to reduce the strain on the NHS during the pandemic.

Are there any side effects?

If you experience any vaccine side effects they are likely to be mild. Common side effects include:

– Mild fever
– Aching
– Sore arm from the injection
– Headaches
– Tiredness or feeling under the weather
– Blocked or runny nose

Serious side effects of the injected flu vaccine are very rare, however, if you feel as though you are very unwell then contact emergency services right away.

Booking

To book your flu vaccination or if you have any questions or queries please do contact us today!