A leading Boots pharmacist has answered the most common questions about the flu jab.
Due to lock downs and mask wearing, less people have suffered from the flu in recent years so that means many will have less immunity to it this year. As a result there is expected to be a rise in the number of people becoming ill with the virus this winter.
Therefore, getting the flu jab is important to ensure that everyone had the best chance of keeping themselves and others safe from the virus. Practicing good hygiene is also essential in helping to keep the flu, covid and colds at bay.
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Boots' lead pharmacist, Bina Mehta, is responsible for providing essential medicines and healthcare advice to patients. She has answered five of the top asked questions by patients in regards to the flu jab.
How effective is the flu jab and how long until I’m fully protected?
“A flu jab is the best way to keep yourself and others protected from the virus this winter. Having the jab also reduces the risk of passing the virus onto others. After your jab, it usually takes around 10 to 14 days for you to be protected, so it’s best to book your vaccination as early as you can.”
Who is eligible for a free NHS jab?
“Anyone over the age of 50 is eligible for an NHS flu jab, as well as other eligibility criteria including those who are pregnant, those with certain medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease and those people who are carers. Free NHS flu jabs are offered to those more at risk from complications from flu, so I would recommend that everyone eligible for it books an appointment as soon as possible.”
If I am not eligible, should I still get a flu jab?
“I would recommend getting a flu vaccine this year even if not eligible on the NHS. Getting your flu jab is the best way to keep you, and the people around you, protected from getting flu. Boots offers a private flu jab service for those who are not eligible on the NHS, but would still like to receive a flu jab.”
I had the flu jab last year, do I need to get it again?
“Flu virus strains can change from year to year, which means that last year’s jab may not protect you from this year’s main circulating strains. What’s more, protection provided by the flu jab decreases over time, so it’s important to get your flu jab every year.”
I’m eligible for a Covid-19 booster, do I need to book a flu jab too?
“Yes. A flu vaccination does not offer protection from Covid-19 and vice versa. If you are eligible for both, the flu jab and Covid-19 booster can be administered together during the same appointment subject to availability in some of our stores. t
"You can check your eligibility for a Covid booster and NHS flu jab through the NHS website, or pop in store and speak to your local Pharmacist who can help advise on appropriate options for you.”
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