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Flu jabs are the best way to protect yourself against the influenza virus, and the vaccine is now available to a much wider pool of the UK public. Here’s how to book your flu jab straight away.
All adults over the age of 50 will be eligible for a free flu jab this year, the government has announced.
The programme will be coming into effect from December 1, so it’s a good idea to start booking your vaccine now.
The flu jab is usually offered to people over 65 years old, but the government has launched an extended programme this year, owing to the coronavirus.
If you’re over 50 years old, you can book a flu jab at your local GP, or by simply visiting a pharmacy.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England, Professor Jonathan Van-Tam, said: “Influenza vaccination is a critical tool this and every winter to prevent severe illnesses and potential hospitalisations for thousands of people.
“I urge all those who are eligible for the flu vaccine, including the new group of 50-64 year olds, to book their appointments as soon as they can.”
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said that getting the flu jab was more important now than ever before.
England has been plunged into a second nationwide lockdown, after more than 50,000 people died from the coronavirus.
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“This winter is like no other, and we have to worry about the twin threats of flu and COVID-19,” said Hancock.
“COVID means getting a flu jab is more important than ever this year.
“So, we are delivering the largest ever flu vaccination programme.
“Free vaccinations for 50-64 years olds will now be available from GPs and Pharmacies starting from 1st December.”
The flu vaccine is currently available to absolutely everyone.
But, only certain groups of people are eligible for free flu jabs.
From December, anybody that’s over 50, are pregnant, or live or work in a care home, will be eligible.
If you have an underlying medical condition, you could also be eligible for the flu vaccine.
You can get your flu jab at your GP surgery, at a local pharmacy, or by your midwifery service if you’re pregnant.
Flu usually gets better by itself, and can be treated with over-the-counter medications.
But, on rarer occasions, it can lead to some deadly complications, including pneumonia.
The most common flu symptoms include a high fever, body aches, a dry cough, sore throat, and headaches.
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