Well Pharmacy has announced that flu vaccinations will be free, instead of the usual £15 cost. The chain is concerned as the winter flu season is now in full force, with hospital admissions reaching a peak and flu stats higher than they have been in recent years.
Recent data shared by NHS England showed that there was an increase in flu cases by nearly 70% leaving many in hospital each week. The pharmacy chain is worried about those who have yet to have the flu jab and is urging people to get one for free.
Only children aged 2-11, people over 50, and those with certain medical conditions are eligible for free NHS jabs. That leaves millions who would normally have to pay for a flu vaccination.
Research recently undertaken by the chain shows that a quarter of people (25%) think that after so many Covid-19 jabs in the last few years, ‘vaccine fatigue’ has led to a perceived lack of motivation in others to get their jabs.
The chain also know that money is a real concern, with people making choices between eating and heating, so are now offering flu jabs for adults for free.
Ifti Khan, Superintendent Pharmacist at Well Pharmacy, said: “We have taken the decision to offer the flu vaccination for free, whilst stocks last. We know the cost-of-living crisis is impacting on people. If anyone doesn’t qualify for a free NHS vaccination, and they are struggling financially, finding the money to get the vaccine can feel impossible.
“We also know we are amid one of the worst flu seasons we have seen in recent times. We want people to know that if they haven’t already been vaccinated and need a jab, they can come and have one for free at a local Well Pharmacy. Getting a flu jab is one of the best things people can do to protect themselves and their family this winter.”
To get the vaccine, just head to your local Well Pharmacy and speak to a member of the pharmacy team. The teams can also help with well-being services such as blood pressure checks, weight and diabetes risk support and medication and prescription management.
