For some, catching the flu is not that serious and symptoms usually pass within a week; for others, the flu can put them at risk of developing complications, such as pneumonia, bronchitis and even heart problems. So, it is no surprise that many people search for the phrase “Can I get a free flu jab?” during flu season.
In this article, we will discuss the proposed changes to the eligibility for free flu jabs, where you can get a jab without having to wait for weeks on end, as well as the benefits of getting vaccinated.
The Benefits of Flu Vaccines
It is fair to say that the flu can be an uncomfortable experience. But for older people and young children, it can be more than just an inconvenience and make them seriously ill. But the good news is that the vaccine provides the best protection against the flu and reduces the risk of getting it.
While the vaccine does not provide complete protection, if you catch the flu, your symptoms will usually be much milder. Plus, if you are more prone to getting the flu, getting vaccinated significantly lowers the risk of serious complications. But the benefits do not end there. It also helps to protect those around you too.
It’s worth noting that even if you are eligible for a vaccine, the NHS has limited availability. This usually means that there are long waiting lists. To boost your immunity before flu rates increase, it makes sense to book a private flu jab at our clinic this winter season. That way, you can minimise the spread of the virus and ensure that you and your loved ones can enjoy the festive period.
Can Over 50s Get a Flu Jab?
Last year, the government offered flu jabs to people over the age of 50. However, this year, those who are aged between 50 and 64 will no longer be entitled to get a free vaccine. In other words, only those who are 65 or over by the 31st of March 2024 have the chance of getting the vaccine without paying. But there is no need to worry. The good news is that our private clinic offers quadrivalent injected vaccines to those who are 50 and over with underlying medical conditions.
It is also possible to get the flu vaccine if you:
- Are pregnant
- Have a particular health condition
- Receive carer’s allowance
- Are the main carer for a disabled or elderly person
- Are in long-term residential care
- Live with someone who has a weakened immune system
Can Children Get a Flu Vaccine?
If your child was born between the 1st of September 2019 and the 31st of August 2021, they are entitled to a flu vaccine as a nasal spray. The nasal spray flu vaccine is also offered to children in primary school, no matter what year they are in.
When it comes to secondary school-aged children, the nasal spray flu vaccine is only offered to those in year 7 to year 11. However, those between the ages of 2 and 17 will be strongly advised to have the vaccine if they have a particular long-term health condition, such as diabetes or heart problems.
Currently, the nasal spray vaccine is not licensed for children under the age of 2 years old. Instead, they may be offered a flu vaccine injection if they are at a higher risk of becoming very sick.
Are Flu Jabs Available for Pregnant Women?
If you have the flu whilst you are pregnant, this could lead to complications developing, such as bronchitis or even pneumonia. In some cases, flu could even lead to a premature birth or result in the baby having a low birth weight. That is why, no matter what stage of pregnancy you are in, it is highly recommended that you have the flu vaccine. After all, getting vaccinated will help you protect both yourself and your baby. We offer private flu vaccines to people experiencing pregnancy, helping to boost their protection against this nasty virus.
What If I Have a Long-Term Health Condition?
You will be eligible for a flu jab if you:
- Are seriously overweight (40 or above BMI)
- Have a weakened immune system
- Have a chronic heart disease
- Have have been hospitalised or had a steroid treatment for asthma
- Have chronic obstructive pulmonary
- Have chronic kidney disease
- Have chronic liver disease
- Have diabetes
- Have problems with your spleen
- Have a chronic neurological condition
It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive and you can get a vaccine for other long-term health conditions. If you have a condition that may be made worse by catching the flu, speak to one of our highly trained doctors to see whether you are eligible.
Can I Get a Flu Jab If I am a Carer or Social Worker?
If you are a frontline health and social care worker who works closely with people who are at high risk of experiencing complications from the flu, you will be eligible for a vaccine. You will also be eligible if you receive a carer’s allowance or if you are the primary carer for an elderly or disabled person.
In most cases, employers will arrange flu vaccines for employees. If you have not taken care of this yet, it is advisable to speak to one of our GPs about our corporate flu vaccination package. By investing in your employees’ health, you can reduce the number of sick days taken during flu season and ensure that productivity remains high.
Corporate Flu Jabs
For those who work in different sectors, corporate flu vaccination packages are rising in popularity amongst employers. These programmes play a crucial part in fostering a healthy and productive workforce, helping to demonstrate a company’s commitment to employee well-being. This preventive measure not only safeguards individuals but also benefits the overall operational efficiency of the organisation. By significantly reducing sick days and enhancing overall wellness, flu vaccinations serve as a valuable tool in optimising workforce performance.
Healthcare providers, such as Midland Health, specialise in organising GP-led flu clinics for employees, providing options for on-site or local clinic arrangements. Engaging in corporate flu vaccination programs allows companies to proactively address the health of their staff, resulting in a healthier work environment. For further information or to arrange a corporate flu vaccination package, contact us today.
Where Can I Get a Flu Jab?
If you meet the eligibility criteria for a flu jab, you can get one from your local GP or pharmacist. But, you can also guarantee a flu jab at a state-of-the-art private clinic with minimal hassle and stress.
Visit Our Private Flu Jab Clinic
With winter fast approaching, it is important to get vaccinated as early as possible. The good news is that with Midland Health, you can skip the queue and get a private flu jab at short notice. That way, you can ensure that you and those around you are protected by the time flu viruses start spreading.
Get in touch with us to book a consultation and boost your protection.