Vaccinations
Influenza/Flu is a highly infectious acute respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It is usually self-limited with recovery in 2-7 days but it can be severe. It affects all age groups and is characterised by the abrupt onset of fever headache, myalgia, cough, sore throat, and malaise. Outbreaks of influenza occur almost every year, usually in winter therefore it is also known as seasonal flu.
The flu vaccine helps the person’s immune system produce antibodies to the flu virus. The vaccine starts to work within two weeks. The flu virus changes each year so this is why a new flu vaccine has to be given each year.
Your Local Pharmacy has been providing vaccines for over ten years and our experienced staff are available in all our branches. Just call and ask for more details or an appointment at a time that suits you (includes evenings and weekends).
The vaccine is provided free of charge to everyone in an at-risk category including.
- Over 65s
- children between 2-17 years (Nasal spray preferred vaccine).
- Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy.
- People with chronic illness including respiratory conditions, heart conditions, diabetes, kidney conditions, liver conditions, neurological conditions and blood disorders.
- Those who are immunosuppressed due to treatment, cancer or medication.
- Healthcare workers and carers.
- Household contacts or out of home carers of person with increased medical risk.
- Residents of nursing homes or long-stay institutions.
- Children and adults with Down Syndrome.
