FLU VACCINES 2021-2022
The injected flu vaccine is offered free of charge on the NHS to people who are ‘at risk’ to ensure that they are protected against catching flu and developing serious complications.
You are eligible to receive a free flu jab if you:
- Are 65 years of age or over
- Are pregnant
- Are living in a long-stay residential care home or other long-stay care facility
- Receive a carer’s allowance, or you are the main carer for an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if you fall ill
- Care-workers who are directly involved in the care of over 65 year olds and those in ‘at risk’ groups
Have certain medical conditions such as:
- Chronic (long term) respiratory disease such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or bronchitis requiring regular inhalers
- Chronic heart disease such as heart failure or angina
- Chronic kidney disease
- Chronic liver disease, such as Hepatitis
- Chronic neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease
- Diabetes
- Problems with your spleen e.g. have had your spleen removed
- Weakened immune system due to diseases such as HIV, or treatment such as cancer treatment
- Have a high body mass index (BMI) of 40 or over
There are three types of flu vaccine being used. The vaccine suitable for each age group has been decided by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisations based on studies of which vaccine gave the best protection against flu for different age groups.
- One vaccine (injectable) is licensed for patients aged 65 years and over.
- Another vaccine (injectable) is recommended for children aged 6 months to 2 years and for adults aged from 18 to 65 who are at increased risk from flu.
- The third vaccine is a nasal spray used for 2 and 3 year olds at the GP surgery. Patients between the ages of 4-17 in an ‘at risk’ category will also be offered the nasal vaccine.
This year we have had the added issues of ensuring social distancing. We have our wonderful team of nurses, health care assistants, GP’s and administration staff guiding you through. Our flu clinics will be held on Saturday mornings, starting mid-September. Our FLUENZ (nasal spray) clinics for under 18’s will start at the end of September.
