Protecting yourself from the flu is essential, especially during the colder months. The flu virus spreads through airborne particles from coughs and sneezes of infected individuals. At Gilbride Pharmacy, we offer both private and NHS flu vaccinations to keep you safe.
What is the Flu?
The flu is a viral infection, and antibiotics are ineffective against it. Recovering from the flu requires time for your body to combat the virus naturally. The flu virus spreads easily through the air, making it highly contagious. It can also transmit through contact with contaminated surfaces. Therefore, practicing proper hand hygiene is crucial in the fight against the flu.
Common flu symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Muscle aches
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion
- Stomach pain and digestive issues
- Weakness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Loss of appetite
- Shivering
- Cough
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Typically, flu symptoms improve within seven days, but fatigue may linger. If your symptoms worsen or don't improve, seek medical advice promptly.
Free NHS Flu Vaccinations
NHS flu vaccinations are available for the following eligible groups this winter:
- Individuals aged 50 and over
- People over six months of age with underlying medical conditions (e.g. asthma, diabetes)
- Healthcare workers
- Social care workers providing personal care
- Unpaid and young carers
- Pregnant women (including those with at-risk conditions)
- Children aged 2-5 (not yet in school)
- Primary and secondary school students
- NHS independent contractors, including GP, dental and optometry practices
Private Vaccinations
For those who prefer paid- or employer-funded options:
- Self-funded private vaccinations are available to all who need them.
- We also support employer-funded private vaccinations.
- Please note that the vaccination itself remains the same, with the payment method being the only difference.
FAQ
Why Should I Get the Flu Jab? Getting the flu jab reduces your risk of contracting the flu and experiencing its symptoms. While it doesn't guarantee 100% protection, vaccinated individuals who do contract the flu tend to have less severe symptoms and a faster recovery. The flu can pose serious risks to children, the elderly, those with weakened immune systems and pregnant women. The flu jab offers protection against the flu and reduces the risk of severe illness and complications like pneumonia for these groups.
What Should I Expect Afterwards? Getting the flu jab won't give you the flu itself; it's a non-live vaccine. However, you may experience flu-like symptoms as a mild side effect, which typically subside within a few days. Our Gilbride pharmacist will provide more information about potential side effects, including redness and soreness at the injection site.
When Does It Start Working? It may take up to 14 days for your immunity to develop after receiving the flu jab. To minimise the risk of catching the flu before immunity sets in, it's best to get vaccinated early in the season.
How Often Do I Need a Jab? You should receive the flu vaccine annually because the virus constantly changes. Each year, the vaccine is tailored to combat the most prevalent flu strains.
When Should I Get the Jab? Ideally, get vaccinated before the flu season begins, but you can still receive the vaccine later in the winter.
Should I Get the Jab If I've Already Had the Flu This Year? Yes, it's advisable because multiple flu virus strains circulate annually. Getting the vaccine can further reduce your risk of contracting other strains, even if you've already had one infection.
Cost
NHS flu vaccinations are free for eligible individuals. For private vaccinations, we strive to provide high-quality, affordable options. Appointments are available without prior scheduling following a brief consultation with our pharmacist. If you have an employer voucher, the cost will be covered.
Visit Us
Select your preferred Gilbride Pharmacy branch to visit their page and inquire about our flu vaccination service, or simply walk in at your convenience. We're here to help.