Free on the NHS if you are eligible, or privately for a small charge. Walk-in or book ahead from September.
Flu is not just a bad cold. Every winter it puts tens of thousands of people in hospital, and for older people, pregnant women and anyone with a long-term condition it can be dangerous. The vaccine is the best protection there is, and Benson Pharmacy offers it every autumn: free on the NHS for those who are eligible, and privately for everyone else.
Free on the NHS this season
You can have the flu vaccine free at the pharmacy if you are:
- Aged 65 or over
- Aged 18 to 64 with a long-term condition such as asthma or COPD, heart disease, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, a neurological condition, a weakened immune system, or a BMI of 40 or more
- Pregnant, at any stage
- Living in a care home
- The main carer for an older or disabled person, or receiving Carer's Allowance
- Living with someone whose immune system is weakened
- A frontline health or social care worker
Children aged 2 to 17 in a clinical risk group can also have it at the pharmacy this year. Younger children have a nasal spray at their GP surgery or through school. Not sure whether you qualify? Ask us and we will check.
Not eligible? Have it privately
If you fall outside the NHS groups you can still have the flu jab here for a small charge. Ask us for this season's price. It is the same vaccine, given the same way.
What happens at your appointment
We ask a few quick questions about your health and any allergies, then give the vaccine as an injection in the upper arm. It takes a moment, and you can carry on with your day straight afterwards.
Good to know
- The vaccine cannot give you flu. A sore arm, and sometimes a mild temperature or aching for a day or so, are the most common side effects
- It takes 10 to 14 days to work, so September and October are the best time to have it
- You can have the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same visit if you are eligible for both
- Flu viruses change every year, which is why a new jab is needed each autumn
How to book
Book online at a time that suits you, call us on 01491 838686, or pop in and we will find a time with you. Appointments are in our private consultation room.