Protect Yourself This Flu Season: Vaccinations at Highfield Pharmacy

Flu season is approaching and getting vaccinated is one of the simplest, most effective things you can do to protect yourself, your family and the wider community. At Highfield Pharmacy in St Albans we offer NHS and private flu vaccinations to make the process quick, safe and convenient.

Why get the flu vaccine this season?

The **flu vaccine** reduces your chance of catching seasonal influenza and can make illness milder if you do get infected. It also helps prevent complications that can lead to hospital stay, especially for older adults and people with long-term health conditions.

Vaccination also protects those around you who may be more vulnerable, such as babies, pregnant people, or those with weakened immune systems who can't be fully protected by vaccination alone.

Who is eligible and when to get it?

NHS eligibility

The NHS offers free flu jabs to people in groups at higher risk from flu. These include older adults, people with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant people, and some carers and household contacts of vulnerable individuals.

Private and general advice

If you are not eligible for a free NHS flu jab, you can still get a private vaccination at the pharmacy. We recommend getting vaccinated in the autumn before flu circulation rises — typically from October onwards — but it's still beneficial later in the season.

| Eligible group | How to get the vaccine | | --- | --- | | Aged 65 and over | NHS flu programme | | Pregnant people | NHS flu programme | | Long-term health conditions (e.g. asthma, diabetes) | NHS flu programme | | Undocumented eligibility or healthy adults | Private vaccination at the pharmacy |

What happens during your pharmacy appointment?

When you arrive for your vaccination you'll be greeted by a trained pharmacist or nurse. We will check your eligibility, medical history and obtain verbal consent before administering the jab.

After the injection you'll be advised to wait for a short period (usually 10–15 minutes) so we can monitor for immediate reactions. We'll also give you written aftercare advice and a record of the vaccination for your NHS record if applicable.

Preparing for your appointment

• Bring your NHS number if you have it.
• Wear clothing that allows easy access to the upper arm (short sleeves are ideal).
• Tell us about allergies, previous reactions to vaccines, or if you are on blood-thinning medication.
• Inform the pharmacist if you are currently unwell or have a high temperature.

Practical advice and symptom checklist

Most people experience only mild side effects that pass within a day or two. Common reactions include soreness at the injection site, a low-grade fever, or muscle aches.

• Expect a sore arm for 1–2 days.
• Rest and drink fluids if you feel a bit unwell afterwards.
• Over‑the‑counter pain relief such as paracetamol can help; follow the product instructions.

> If you develop difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, a high fever, or any severe symptoms after the vaccine, seek emergency medical help immediately and inform the pharmacist.

Frequently asked questions

**Q: Does the flu vaccine give me flu?**

A: No. The inactivated seasonal flu vaccine cannot cause flu. Mild symptoms like a low-grade temperature or muscle aches may occur as your immune system responds.

**Q: Can I have the flu jab if I am pregnant?**

A: Yes. The flu vaccine is recommended and safe during pregnancy and helps protect both you and your baby.

**Q: Do I still need the COVID-19 vaccine?**

A: Yes. The flu vaccine protects against influenza and does not replace COVID-19 vaccinations. You can usually have both vaccines at the same visit; the pharmacist will advise on timing.

Vaccination is a simple, effective way to reduce your risk of flu and its complications. If you're in St Albans and would like a quick, professional service, Highfield Pharmacy can help — whether you are eligible for an NHS jab or prefer a private appointment.

Please call or visit Highfield Pharmacy to book your flu vaccination, or speak to one of our pharmacists for personalised advice and appointments.