Pharmacists offer flu jab

LEICESTER pharmacists are taking part in a national scheme to provide those who are eligible with their seasonal flu jab this winter.

A total of 20 pharmacies across the city are inviting people who are eligible for their seasonal flu jab to pop in and get vaccinated. Patients can either book themselves an appointment or drop in at a time to suit them.

The development means people across the city now have easier access to their yearly seasonal flu vaccinations and more choice over where they can have the jab.

Toby Sanders, director of primary and community care at NHS Leicester City, said: “It’s never been easier for patients from at-risk groups to get a seasonal flu jab. Pharmacists across the city are on hand to provide people with advice and give them their flu jab this winter.

“It’s extremely important to get vaccinated against the virus. Influenza is a serious illness especially for older people. The flu jab is a quick, easy way to have peace of mind and can help with good health for the winter months ahead.”

Pharmacist Dalbir Nagra from Brookvale Pharmacy on Meadvale Road, Leicester, said: “Pharmacists in the city offer a free seasonal flu vaccination service to people who are eligible to receive it from the NHS.

“This service can usually be accessed at times to suit you. Its important people with long term health conditions, especially those over 65 get the vaccine as it can reduce your chances of getting flu during the winter.”

The vaccination is free to anyone who falls into the clinical risk groups. This includes those with diabetes, heart disease, asthma and those over-65s as well as pregnant women who suffer from any of these conditions.

For more information on the flu jab, visit www.immunisation.nhs.uk/flu. To find your nearest participating pharmacist please contact NHS Leicester City’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on 0116 295 7011.

For interviews or more information please contact press officer Liz Mattock on 0116 295 4123 or liz.mattock@leicestercity.nhs.uk
Pharmacists will not be administering the vaccine to pregnant women. Pregnant women must seek advice from their GP who will also be able to give them their flu jab.

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