You may have seen in the news that cases of influenza infections have increased sharply, and much earlier than anticipated this winter.
The doctors and nurses at the surgery strongly advise all eligible patients to get their free influenza vaccination (flu jab) if you have not done so already. We have plenty of appointment availability and many community pharmacies are also offering free flu flu jabs. If you are eligible and wish to be vaccinated, call our reception team and they will book you in for a convenient appointment time.
There has been a dramatic rise in influenza infections that is putting a significant strain on A&E departments, hospital beds, the ambulances services as well as GP practices. It is not uncommon for those in at-risks groups to be hospitalised by the flu virus. Not only does having the flu jab protect you, it also helps to protect other vulnerable patients as well as reduce pressure on NHS services over the winter period.
NHS North Central London Integrated Care Board (NCL ICB) has created a Winter Wellness Hub online, for practical and trustworthy advice for patients on how to keep well this winter.
If you are eligible for a flu vaccine you would have been invited by us here at the surgery. You can get the free NHS flu vaccine if you:
- are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2026)
- have certain long-term health conditions
- are pregnant
- live in a care home
- are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer’s allowance
- live with someone who has a weakened immune system
Young children aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2025 (born between 1 September 2021 and 31 August 2023) are offered the nasal spray influenza vaccine. This is a simple spray into the nostrils. However, if parents wish they can also opt for the injectable variant instead.
Facts about the flu vaccine
There are many misconceptions that are spread online about the flu vaccines. It is important to remember the facts. You can get more information about flu vaccines on the NCL Winter Wellness Hub or book an appointment to speak to one of our nurses to answer any questions you may have.
- The flu vaccine cannot give you the flu – The injected flu vaccine contains an inactivated virus that cannot give you flu. If you feel achy or slightly feverish, it is a normal reaction of the immune system to the vaccine and generally lasts only a day or two.
- The flu is not just a bad cold – Whilst colds and flus share some similar symptoms (blocked nose, sore throat and high temperature), flu is much worse than a cold. Flu symptoms come on very quickly and can include a sudden high temperature, aches, exhaustion, diarrhoea or tummy pain, a sore throat, a headache and difficulty sleeping.
- It is not just older people that are vulnerable – Flu can be dangerous to older people, and that is why people aged 65 are also eligible for the flu vaccine. But, people of any age may have long term health conditions that also make flu more dangerous for them. This could be diabetes, heart disease, asthma/lung conditions, kidney disease, cancer, or other conditions that cause a weakened immune system. If you have a long-term health condition, the flu virus can hit harder, last longer and lead to complications and hospitalisation.
- Antibiotics do not work for flu infections – Antibiotics do not work for viral infections such as flu. GPs do not recommend antibiotics for flu because they will not relieve your symptoms or speed up your recovery.