If you are likely to develop flu-related complications, it is essential that you get vaccinated.
It may sound unimportant, but a severe case of influenza can cause serious complications and in some cases death.
Here is information on who qualifies, how to register, and where to go.
What is a flu vaccination and is it free?
Individuals with certain long-term health conditions will be eligible for a free flu vaccine starting today (September 11). Despite the fact that influenza is disagreeable for most people, it can be dangerous and even fatal for those with certain ailments. The optimal time to receive a flu shot is in the fall or early winter, prior to the onset of flu season. However, you can receive your vaccination at a later date.
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Am I qualified for a complimentary flu shot?
The NHS provides complimentary flu shots to individuals who meet the following criteria:
- all primary school children
- are in long-stay residential care
- receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick
- are 65 and over (including those who will be 65 by March 31 2024)
- are pregnant
- are children between the ages of two and three years old
- are a frontline health and social care worker
- live with someone who is more likely to get a severe infection due to a weakened immune system, such as someone living with HIV, someone who has had a transplant, or is having certain treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
The following conditions also qualify for eligibility:
- liver disease, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis
- some neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), or cerebral palsy
- a learning disability
- problems with your spleen like sickle cell disease, or if you’ve had your spleen removed
- respiratory conditions, such as asthma (needing a steroid inhaler or tablets), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including emphysema and bronchitis
- Diabetes
- heart conditions, such as coronary heart disease or heart failure
- being very overweight – a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above
- chronic kidney disease
If you have a chronic condition not listed above that can be exacerbated by influenza, your doctor may recommend that you receive a free flu shot.
Where is it available?
You can receive the NHS flu vaccine at your local general practitioner’s office, certain pharmacies (if you’re over 18), and some maternity services if you’re expectant.
At school, the nasal aerosol vaccine will be administered to students.
The following pharmacy chains offer eligible adults a free vaccination:
- Superdrug
- Boots
- Tesco pharmacy
- Lloyds pharmacy
- Well pharmacy
- Head to the shop’s website to book your jab.
Additionally, tens of thousands of additional pharmacies will offer the vaccine.
Through this link, you can determine whether or not your local pharmacy offers the service. You’ll be required to provide your postal code.
What are the symptoms of flu?
The symptoms of influenza are extremely similar to those of a severe cold.
The NHS says this includes an abnormally elevated temperature of 38C or more.
Additionally, you will suffer from body pains and a hoarse cough.
You may also experience difficulty sleeping, anorexia, nausea, and/or vomiting.
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Source: The US Sun
