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Flu Vaccination
Flu is far more than a bad cold. It can put you in bed for a week and, for older people, pregnant women and anyone with a long-term condition, it can lead to serious illness. A yearly vaccine is the best protection, and you can have it at your local pharmacy in a few minutes.
No online booking for this service. Walk in during opening hours or call us.
About Flu Vaccination
The flu virus changes from year to year, and your protection from the previous vaccine fades, so a new vaccine is offered every autumn. The vaccines used in the UK are injected and contain no live virus, so they cannot give you flu.
Having your flu vaccine also helps protect the people around you, including babies, older relatives and anyone who cannot be vaccinated themselves.
Trained pharmacist
Your vaccine is given by a trained, GPhC-registered professional.
No long waits
Walk in or call, with no need to wait for a GP appointment.
Safe for pregnancy
The flu vaccine is safe at any stage of pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Flu + COVID together
If you are eligible for both, they can often be given at the same visit.
Who can have the vaccine?
Free on the NHS if you…
- Are aged 65 or over (or will be by 31 March 2027)
- Are aged 18 to 64 with a long-term health condition, such as asthma, COPD, diabetes, heart, kidney or liver disease, a weakened immune system, or a BMI of 40 or more
- Are pregnant, at any stage of pregnancy
- Live in a care home, or are a main carer or receive Carer’s Allowance
- Live with someone who has a weakened immune system
- Are a frontline health or social care worker
Private vaccination if you…
- Do not qualify for a free NHS vaccine but want the protection
- Want a quick, flexible appointment around work or family life
- Are arranging cover for a team or workplace (ask about group bookings)
When to wait or speak to us first
- You have a high temperature or feel acutely unwell: the vaccine is best delayed until you recover
- You have ever had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a flu vaccine or one of its ingredients
- You are unsure whether you qualify for a free vaccine, just ask and we will check for you
How it works
Walk in or call
Pop in during opening hours or call us on 01702 203233. You can also book through the NHS website or the NHS App.
Quick check
We confirm your eligibility, ask about allergies and recent illness.
Vaccination
A quick injection in the upper arm. It takes only seconds.
Short wait
We ask you to stay briefly to make sure you feel well before you leave.
Protection takes time
It can take up to two weeks after the vaccine for full protection to develop, so the sooner you have it, the better.
Before & after your visit
How to prepare
- Wear a short-sleeved top or sleeves that roll up easily
- Tell us about any allergies or if you are unwell
- Bring your NHS number if you know it
Aftercare & what to expect
- A sore arm, mild temperature or aching for a day or two is common and usually passes quickly
- Take paracetamol if needed and keep moving the arm gently
- Seek urgent help if you develop a rash, swelling of the face or lips, or breathing difficulty (very rare)
Frequently asked questions
Can the flu vaccine give me flu?
No. The injected vaccines used in the UK do not contain live viruses. Some people feel achy or have a mild temperature for a day or two as the immune system responds.
Do I need an appointment?
No. You can walk in during opening hours or call us first. If you would rather book a time, you can also arrange an NHS flu vaccination online through the NHS website or the NHS App.
Can I have the flu and COVID-19 vaccines together?
Often yes, if you are eligible for both. Tell us when you come in and we will see what we can arrange at one visit.
Is it safe if I am pregnant?
Yes. The NHS recommends the flu vaccine at any stage of pregnancy. It also helps protect your baby for the first months of life.
I had the vaccine last year, do I need it again?
Yes. Protection fades and the circulating flu viruses change, so a new vaccine is offered every year.
What about children?
Free NHS flu vaccines for children are given through GP practices and schools, usually as a nasal spray. Please call us if you would like to know whether we can help.
Trusted sources
This page is general information, not personal medical advice. For urgent advice call NHS 111; in an emergency call 999.
Pop in or call us
No appointment needed. Walk in during opening hours or call us on 01702 203233.