Flu jab update
In conjunction with Lloyds Pharmacy, and for the third year running, we are offering the option for free flu vaccinations until 31 December.
Lloyds, in line with other suppliers and the NHS, have seen a large increase in demand this year, which is limiting stock availability. Unfortunately, as a result, the Lloyds appointment booking portal will no longer be available this year.
Many local Lloyds branches still have stocks of inoculations or are expecting further deliveries. To book a flu jab, contact a local branch of Lloyds Pharmacy or visit them in-store. If they have stock, they will book an appointment with you. If they don’t have stock currently available, they will advise if and when they will.
Nearly 5,000 colleagues have redeemed their free flu vaccine since 1 October. Some colleagues will qualify for an NHS flu vaccine. This year, the flu vaccine is being offered on the NHS to:
- pregnant women
- members of a shielding household
- adults aged 65 and older
- people receiving a carer’s allowance, or the main carer for an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if their carer becomes unwell.
The flu vaccine is also being offered to those with a long-term health condition, for example:
- a heart problem
- a chest complaint or breathing difficulties, including bronchitis, emphysema or severe asthma
- kidney disease
- lowered immunity due to disease or treatment, such as steroid medication or cancer treatment
- liver disease
- a history of stroke or a transient ischaemic attack
- Diabetes
- a neurological condition, such as multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy
- a learning disability
- a problem with your spleen, such as sickle cell disease, or if you have had your spleen removed
- being seriously overweight (BMI of 40 and above).
We understand the NHS flu vaccine may also be offered to people aged 50 to 64, although the timescale is unconfirmed.
If you have any questions or you are in doubt as to whether you qualify for a free NHS flu vaccination, please contact your GP.
Where colleagues live more than 15 miles away from their nearest Lloyds Pharmacy, the usual process of paying for a jab and requesting a refund via a T&E claim remains available.
If you are displaying symptoms of Covid-19, or you have had a confirmed Covid-19 diagnosis, please do not attend a flu jab appointment until you have recovered and/or completed the required self-isolation period. The same applies to colleagues identified as close contacts of confirmed Covid-19 cases identified by the NHS Test and Trace service.
This year, more than ever, we need to protect those most at risk from flu, so please consider receiving a free flu jab. Click here for further information and guidance.
