Boots begins NHS flu jabs – check if you are eligible

The service begins on September 1 for eligible patients and marks the start of seasonal protection for those most at risk.

Pregnant women and young children are among the first groups eligible for the jab this year.

Last season, more than half of pregnant women did not receive the vaccine.

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Claire Nevinson, superintendent pharmacist at Boots, said: “With summer coming to an end, customers are already thinking about protecting themselves ahead of the flu season.

“Flu can make people feel very unwell and may pose a serious risk to those considered to be vulnerable.

“It’s a good idea to plan ahead and ensure you have your flu jab as early as possible to help protect yourself and those around you from flu and reduce the risk of passing the virus to others this winter.”

You can book your flu jab with Boots via the website.

Flu can cause severe illness, especially in vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, older adults, young children and those with underlying health conditions.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported that last season’s flu jab reduced the risk of hospitalisation by up to 40 per cent in adults aged 65 and over.

New research from Boots shows that 44 per cent of people see September as an ideal time for a health reset.

A third of those surveyed said they want to “futureproof” their wellbeing before winter.

Boots has seen a 20 per cent year-on-year increase in flu jab bookings.

From September 22, the Boots Private Winter Flu Jab service will also be available in many stores.

A wider rollout of the NHS flu vaccination will begin on October 1 for all eligible adult groups, including people aged 65 and over and adults aged 18 to 64 with certain long-term health conditions.

The NHS childhood flu vaccination will be offered at more than 140 selected Boots stores.

Patients can book an appointment, check eligibility, or find store availability by visiting boots.com or speaking to a team member at their local Boots pharmacy.

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The pharmacy chain is encouraging people to get vaccinated as early as possible to maximise protection during the flu season.

Boots is also aiming to address common misconceptions about the flu jab.

Ms Nevinson said early vaccination helps reduce the risk of spreading flu to others in the community.

Customers are reminded to check their eligibility and book early to avoid missing out.