Date 2014

PRESS RELEASE

Pharmacy scheme to boost seasonal flu jabs this winter

NHS England in South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw is once again introducing a scheme to encourage as many people as possible who are at risk of complications from flu, to get their free seasonal flu jab. This year a number of pharmacies across Bassetlaw are offering the free flu jab for people who cannot get to their usual GP practice.

Each winter people with a long-term health condition are invited by their GP for their vaccination, but getting time off work to have their flu jab can be an issue. Fiona Jorden, Screening and Immunisation Lead for NHS England in South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw, said: “We want to encourage people across the region to get their flu jab as soon as possible to reduce the risk of catching flu this winter. Having the flu jab means they are protecting not only themselves but also others around them.

“If you have a long-term health condition, even one that is well managed, you are eligible for the flu vaccination free of charge. It’s free because you need it. Flu can make the effects of your existing condition worse and makes complications like pneumonia more likely.

“The vaccination is quick and painless with no side-effects and we are encouraging all eligible people to make sure they have it. If for what-ever reason it isn’t convenient to get a GP appointment, you can go to one of the pharmacies that are taking part in this scheme.”

As well as people aged 65 years and over, people with the following conditions are at risk of complications if they catch the flu virus:

  • chronic (long-term) respiratory disease, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or bronchitis
  • chronic heart disease, such as heart failure
  • chronic kidney disease
  • chronic liver disease, such as hepatitis
  • chronic neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's disease or motor neurone disease
  • diabetes
  • spleen problems – for example, sickle cell disease
  • a weakened immune system due to conditions such as HIV and AIDS, or as a result of medication such as steroid tablets or chemotherapy
  • It also includes people who are carers for someone at home and
  • women who are pregnant

For more information visit NHS Choices: or talk to your GP or pharmacist.

ENDS

Notes to editors

The full list of pharmacies in Bassetlaw where patients can get their flu jab:

Bassetlaw (8)

Pharmacy Name / Branch Address
Boots Pharmacy / Retford Hospital, North Road, Retford, Notts, DN22 7XF
Boots Pharmacy / 24-26 Bridge Street, Worksop, Notts, S80 1JQ
Boots Pharmacy / Harworth Primary Care Centre, 107 Scrooby Road, Harworth, DN11 8JT
Lloyds Pharmacy / 6 Newgate Street, Worksop, Notts, S80 2HD
Lloyds Pharmacy / Riverside Health Centre, Riverside Walk, Retford, DN22 6AA
Tesco Pharmacy / Gateford Road, Worksop, Notts, S81 7AP
The Co-operative Pharmacy / The Health Centre, Newgate Street, Worksop, S80 1HP
Weldricks Pharmacy / 67 Scrooby Road, Harworth, DN11 8JN