As autumn approaches now is the time to start thinking about getting the annual flu jab. The flu vaccine helps protect against flu, which can be serious or even life threatening illness for some people. It is offered on the NHS every year to all patients considered at higher risk of becoming seriously ill from flu. We have ordered a flu vaccine for all our eligible cohort and will host flu vaccine clinics throughout September for children's flu and October for adults considered at risk and who are aged over 65.
The JVCI which is the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation have advised a start date of October for adults as the flu vaccine effectiveness can wane over time. The aim is to receive your vaccine so that you have peak protection during the winter when most at risk. The advice differs for children, because flu circulates in this age group earlier and protection lasts longer.
Appointments are now available to book online via the NHS App and we will be sending self-book invitation links over the coming weeks. For those, who are unable to receive text invitations or whom have opted out of text message please call the practice to book. We will of course aim to invite all eligible patients.
We are running a child flu clinic on Saturday the 28th of September 2024 for children aged 2 or 3 years old on the 31st of August and for those children considered at risk. For all other children, the flu vaccine is offered in primary and secondary schools. We will also have some appointments available in clinic during the week.
We are running adult flu clinics on the following dates in October. We will also have some midweek appointments.
Saturday the 5th of October 8 - 2
Saturday the 12th of October 8 - 2
Saturday the 26th of October 8 - 2
If you'd like more information about the flu vaccine please read the NHS guidance.
https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/flu-vaccine/