Free on the NHS
Flu is rarely just a bad cold. It puts thousands of people in hospital every winter, especially over-65s and patients with long-term conditions. The NHS funds a free flu vaccination from late September every year and we run a fast-flowing clinic at our pharmacy in Urmston throughout autumn.
Free flu vaccination is offered each season to: anyone aged sixty-five or over by 31 March of the following year, anyone aged eighteen to sixty-four in a clinical at-risk group (diabetes, asthma, COPD, heart disease, kidney disease, immunosuppression, severe obesity), pregnant women at any stage, household contacts of immunocompromised patients, carers receiving Carer Allowance, and frontline NHS or social-care staff. Eligibility is confirmed at the consultation.
The pharmacy clinic opens once stock arrives, usually mid to late September, and runs into early February. For maximum protection over the Christmas peak, we recommend an October or early November jab. We accept walk-ins but Saturdays book up fast so an online slot is sensible.
Over-65s receive the adjuvanted quadrivalent vaccine (aQIV) which is matched to the older immune system. Under-65 at-risk patients receive the standard quadrivalent injectable (QIVe). All vaccines are egg-cultivated unless you have a documented egg allergy, in which case the pharmacist will refer you to an egg-free clinic.
A mild sore arm or low-grade temperature for twenty-four hours is normal. You can carry on as usual; the vaccine cannot give you flu. Protection peaks around two weeks after the injection and lasts the full season.
Free for the eligible groups listed above. Private flu vaccination is available for everyone else - ask at the counter for current pricing.
Yes, where you are eligible for both. The two vaccines can be given in different arms in the same visit.
Walk in is fine for most patients but the Saturday and after-school slots book up. Booking online avoids waiting.
Yes. The strains change every season and last year is no protection.
Yes. The NHS recommends flu vaccination at any stage of pregnancy. It protects you and gives your baby some protection in the first months of life.
Or call 0161 748 3016