Flu Vaccine

Flu is caused by influenza viruses that infect the windpipe and lungs.  When an infected person coughs or sneezes, the flu viruses can be breathed in by other people or they can be picked up by touching surfaces where the viruses have landed. You can prevent the spread of the virus by covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and by washing your hands frequently. But the best way to avoid catching and spreading flu is by having the vaccination before the flu season starts.

The flu vaccine helps protect against flu, which can be a serious or life-threatening illness.

Who should have the flu vaccine:

You can get the free NHS flu vaccine if you:

·    are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2025)

·    have certain long-term health conditions

·    are pregnant

·    live in a care home

·    are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer's allowance

·    live with someone who has a weakened immune system

Respiratory syncytial virus vaccine

The RSV vaccine helps protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common virus that can make babies and older adults seriously ill. It's recommended during pregnancy and for adults aged 75 to 79.

Symptoms of an RSV infection

Most people only get cold-like symptoms, such as:

·   a runny or blocked nose

·   a cough

·    sneezing

·    tiredness

·    a high temperature – signs include your back or chest feeling hotter than usual, sweatiness and shivering (chills)

In some people (especially babies and older adults) it can cause illnesses such as:

·    pneumonia (a lung infection)

·    bronchiolitis (a chest infection that affects babies)

Who should have the RSV vaccine?

The RSV vaccine is recommended if:

·     you're pregnant – the vaccine is recommended during every pregnancy (from 28 weeks onwards) to help protect your baby after they're born

·     you're aged 75 to 79

Shingles Vaccine

Shingles is a common condition that causes a painful rash. It can sometimes lead to serious problems such as long-lasting pain, hearing loss or blindness.

The shingles vaccine helps:

·    reduce your chances of getting shingles

·    reduce your chances of getting serious problems if you do get shingles

Who should have the Shingles vaccine?

·     People who turn 65 on or after 1 September 2023

·     People aged 70 to 79

·     People aged 50 and over with a severely weakened immune system

If you would like to get vaccinated and are eligible, then please call the surgery to book in an appointment.

Click here for information on Child Vaccinations.