As the weather gets colder, it’s not uncommon for bugs to spread quickly. And, with Covid-19 still rife, it’s even more important to reduce the risk of illness and pressure within hospitals. To protect yourself and others from the flu, we advise you to book your flu vaccine as soon as you can. Simply contact your private GP, or call our practice line on 0333 050 7338.
Who can book the flu vaccine?
The flu vaccination is available on the NHS to adults in certain groups. These groups include:
- 65 and overs
- Those who are pregnant
- People who receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person
- Those who live with someone who is more likely to get a severe infection due to a weakened immune system
- People in long-stay residential care
- Those with certain health conditions
- Frontline health workers
- Social care workers
As a member of Linbury Doctors, you will be offered a free flu vaccine as part of your membership, regardless of whether you are in an at-risk group or not. Your private GP will be in touch with you to discuss having your vaccine. If you’re a member and would like to book your flu jab, please do contact your dedicated doctor for a private GP appointment or call our practice line on 0333 050 7338.
Why is it important to book the flu vaccine?
The flu vaccination is safe and effective at protecting you from getting seriously ill from the influenza virus. You can have the vaccine once a year, at the beginning of autumn. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns over the past couple of years, more people are likely to be infected with influenza this winter, as fewer people will have built up natural immunity to it.
It’s important to have the vaccine in order to protect yourself – and at-risk people around you – from getting seriously ill. You may also be offered the Covid-19 booster vaccination for autumn 2022 (currently offered to at-risk groups only). It is safe to have both vaccines at the same time. Find out more information here.
What are the symptoms of the Flu?
As we all are aware, the average cold usually shows symptoms of a runny nose, cough, and sore throat.
The flu, however, shows all this plus a high fever or feverish chills, headaches, fatigue, muscle aches and sometimes vomiting and diarrhoea (although this is more common in children).
If you are worried, please make an appointment with your private GP.
To see our membership options, click here.
