RECORD NUMBER OF BRITS TO FIGHT FLU WITH JABS THIS AUTUMN

New data predicts a record number of Brits will sign up for their flu vaccination this Autumn. The UK’s largest online pharmacy, Pharmacy2U, reveals that two thirds of people surveyed intend to get a flu jab this year, with over one in ten (14 per cent) signing up to have one for the first time.

Research commissioned by Pharmacy2U found that attitudes towards getting the flu jab may have changed among Brits because of the nationwide Covid-19 vaccine drive, with 35 per cent of those surveyed saying that having their coronavirus vaccine made them more determined to get their flu vaccine this year.

Over half (58 per cent) said having the Covid-19 vaccine showed them how easy and accessible it was, over half (52 per cent) said they feel more knowledgeable about vaccines now, and over a quarter (27 per cent) said having had the vaccine, it made them less afraid of needles. Over half (53 per cent) said they now see the importance of the flu vaccine in protecting themselves and others.

Since the start of this year, Pharmacy2U has helped the NHS to vaccinate the nation against Covid-19, giving over 700,000 vaccines to people all across England. It continues to vaccinate people daily at its clinics across its 25 sites, in venues such as Odeon Cinemas, Morrisons, Village Hotels and The Jockey Club racecourses.

Pharmacy2U will continue working with the NHS, who recently announced that the free flu jab will be made available to 35 million people this year*, by vaccinating people in England against the common flu from 13^th September onwards, for the second year in a row.

As the nation slowly returns to normal life, over two thirds (68 per cent) of Brits surveyed said they have concerns about their health this winter. Also, 43 per cent expressed concerns that their immune system may be weaker, with potential reasons including working from home (27 per cent) and limiting contact with many people (55 per cent) and the increased use of sanitisers (32 per cent). In addition, 47 per cent expressed concerns about catching Covid-19 and flu at the same time and the health implications of this, and 68 per cent said they didn’t want flu to impact their newfound freedoms now lockdown rules have lifted.

Phil Day, superintendent pharmacist at Pharmacy2U, comments: “As we enter what could be a very challenging winter for many, this is a much-needed service for people up and down the country. Influenza can be potentially fatal, so having your flu jab is a vital way to play your part in protecting yourself and others. It is best to get your flu vaccination in the Autumn before flu starts circulating, so you should take a look at our website, where you find out more information and easily book your flu vaccine.”

Flu vaccinations will be available for free for patients in England that meet the NHS eligibility requirements, and additionally offered at an affordable rate for anyone else. For the full list of eligibility requirements, visit: www.pharmacy2u.co.uk/flu

Phil’s top tips for staying safe this flu season include:

1. Get a flu vaccination; flu vaccines help protect against the main types of flu viruses. It will also help to reduce pressure on the NHS and social care staff who may be dealing with coronavirus-related illnesses.
2. Wash your hands often for 20 seconds. Washing your hands properly removes dirt, viruses and bacteria to stop them spreading to other people and objects.
3. Use tissues to trap germs when you cough or sneeze, or alternatively sneeze or cough into your elbow. Dispose of your tissue immediately.
4. Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly to maintain good health.
5. Sleep well: adults need seven to eight hours of sleep each night, consistently, to stay healthy.

For more information and to book your flu vaccination in a few clicks, visit: www.pharmacy2u.co.uk/flu