Flu and Covid Vaccination

As the colder months approach, it becomes increasingly important to safeguard yourself and those around you from seasonal illnesses such as the flu and Covid-19. At Eltham Pharmacy, we are committed to providing essential healthcare services, including flu and Covid vaccination, to help keep our community safe and healthy. Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of these viruses, and we are proud to offer both flu and Covid vaccines at our pharmacy.

Why Get Vaccinated?

Getting vaccinated against both flu and COVID-19 is crucial for several reasons:

1. Protection Against Severe Illness: Both the flu and COVID-19 can cause serious illness, particularly in vulnerable individuals such as the elderly, those with chronic health conditions, and pregnant women. Vaccines significantly reduce the risk of severe symptoms, hospitalisation, and long-term complications.
2. Community Immunity: By getting vaccinated, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re also helping to protect those who may be unable to receive the vaccine or who may be more susceptible to complications. This helps to reduce the spread of the virus within the community.
3. Prevention of Co-Infection: As both flu and COVID-19 are respiratory illnesses, co-infection is possible, leading to more severe health outcomes. By being vaccinated against both, you lower your risk of suffering from both illnesses simultaneously.
4. Reduces the Strain on Healthcare Services: Every winter, the NHS is under immense pressure to manage cases of flu and COVID. By getting vaccinated, you can do your part in reducing the burden on healthcare services and ensuring resources are available for those who need them most.

Free Vaccination for Eligible Groups

At Eltham Pharmacy, we offer free flu vaccination to individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria, in line with the NHS guidelines. This ensures that those most at risk are protected without any financial burden. If you fall into one of the following exempt groups, you can book your vaccination free of charge:

Eligible Groups for Free Flu Vaccination:

• Adults aged 65 and over
• Pregnant women
• People with certain medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease)
• Carers or those in receipt of a carer’s allowance
• People living in long-stay care homes
• Close contacts of immunocompromised individuals
• Frontline health and social care workers

How to Book Your Free Vaccine

Booking your flu vaccination at Eltham Pharmacy is simple and hassle-free. You can either call us directly or visit our website to schedule your appointment. If you are eligible for a free vaccination, there will be no payment required at the time of booking.

We recommend booking early to ensure you get vaccinated before flu season peaks and Covid cases rise during the winter months. Our friendly staff are on hand to answer any questions you may have about the vaccination process and to guide you through any concerns.

Vaccination for Non-Exempt Individuals

For those who do not fall into any of the exempt groups, flu vaccinations are available at Eltham Pharmacy for a small fee of £20 per vaccine. This fee covers the cost of the vaccine and administration by our qualified healthcare professionals.

Getting vaccinated, even if you are not eligible for a free vaccine, is an investment in your health and well-being. The £20 fee is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are protected against potentially life-threatening illnesses.

The Vaccination Process

At Eltham Pharmacy, we prioritise your safety and comfort during the vaccination process. When you arrive for your appointment, our experienced healthcare team will guide you through the following steps:

1. Initial Consultation: Before administering the vaccine, we will ask you a few questions about your health and medical history to ensure the vaccine is safe for you.
2. Vaccine Administration: Our trained healthcare professional will administer the flu or COVID vaccine in a matter of seconds. The process is quick, and most people only experience mild discomfort, such as a slight pinch.
3. Post-Vaccine Monitoring: After receiving your vaccination, we will ask you to stay in the pharmacy for 10 to 15 minutes for observation. This is a precautionary measure to ensure you do not experience any immediate side effects.

Common Side Effects of the Flu and COVID Vaccines

Both the flu and COVID vaccines are generally well-tolerated, with most people experiencing only mild side effects, if any. Common side effects include:

• Soreness at the injection site
• Mild fever or chills
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle aches

These symptoms usually resolve within a few days and are a sign that your body is building protection against the virus. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms after receiving the vaccine, please contact us or seek medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get both the flu and COVID vaccines at the same time?

Yes! It is safe to receive both the flu and COVID vaccines during the same appointment. This is a convenient way to ensure you are protected against both viruses without having to make multiple visits to the pharmacy.

How long does it take for the vaccine to work?

It typically takes about two weeks for your body to build full immunity after receiving the flu or COVID vaccine. This is why it’s important to get vaccinated early, before the peak of flu season or a surge in COVID cases.

Do I need a booster for the COVID vaccine?

If you are eligible for a COVID booster, our team will inform you during your appointment. Boosters help to maintain and strengthen your immunity, especially as new variants of the virus emerge.

Why Choose Eltham Pharmacy?

At Eltham Pharmacy, we are dedicated to serving our local community with care and professionalism. Here’s why you should choose us for your flu and COVID vaccination:

• Convenient Location: We are located in the heart of Eltham, making it easy for you to drop by for your vaccination.
• Qualified Healthcare Professionals: Our team is trained to administer vaccines safely and efficiently, ensuring you receive the best care possible.
• No Waiting Times: With our easy booking system, you can schedule your vaccination at a time that suits you, avoiding long waits.
• Personalised Care: We take the time to answer your questions and provide tailored advice to ensure you feel confident in your health choices.

Get Your Flu and COVID Vaccination Today

Don’t wait until it’s too late—book your flu and COVID vaccination at Eltham Pharmacy today. Whether you qualify for a free vaccine or are paying the £20 fee, the protection offered by vaccination is invaluable. Let us help you stay healthy this winter.