Pharmacy chain Boots have opened the booking system for winter flu vaccinations early due to high demand.
The company say that so far, more than 80,000 people have registered with their winter flu jab service - which also aims to help relieve pressure on the NHS.
According to new research comission by Boots UK, more people than ever considering a flu jab this winter, with almost a third (32 per cent) doing so because they are more aware of the need to protect themselves against flu as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic.
The research also round 30 per cent of people surveyed in the UK are more conscious about catching flu this winter than in previous years, and 50 per cent of people surveyed nationwide haven't previously had a flu vaccination.
What have Boots said?
Anne Higgins, director of Pharmacy at Boots UK said: "As Covid-19 continues to be present in the UK, it is more important than ever for people to consider getting their flu vaccination.
"Although the flu vaccination does not prevent Covid-19, both of these viruses have an impact on the respiratory system so if you can prevent flu, it can be a huge benefit to your overall health including your immune system.
"We also know that winter is a particularly busy time for GPs and hospitals so getting vaccinated early to protect against flu could help reduce the risk of the NHS becoming overwhelmed with both cases of flu and COVID-19."
Boots found that almost a quarter (24 per cent) of people studied were unaware they can get a free NHS flu vaccination from their local pharmacy if they are part of a group deemed 'at-risk' by the NHS, saving the need to book an appointment with their GP.
What safety measures will be in place?
In a bid to continue putting safety first, Boots has increased in-store measures to ensure all customers feel at ease when going for a vaccination.
For example, customers will be asked to read key information online and where possible attend their appointment on their own to avoid any crowding in the pharmacy area.
Customers will also be asked to adhere to social distancing measures in waiting areas, sanitise their hands and continue to wear a face-covering throughout their appointment.
It is also advised that customers bring their own pen to complete any essential paperwork and they will be asked not to speak to the pharmacist during the actual vaccination to minimise the risk of droplet spreading.
If the consultation room is small, the pharmacist may ask to keep the door open during the appointment.
What pharmacy services are available in Boots stores?
The following can be accessed in store or online at Boots.com:
- Pneumonia Vaccination Service
- Chickenpox Vaccination Service
- HPV Vaccination Service
- Meningitis B Vaccination Service
- Travel Vaccination Service
- Cystitis Test & Treat Service
- Mole Scanning Service
- Skin Scanning Service
- Stop Smoking Online Clinic
- Acne Online Clinic
- Hair Loss Online Clinic
- Diabetes Online Risk Assessment
- Erectile Dysfunction Online Clinic
- Period Delay Online Clinic
- Premature Ejaculation Online Clinic
How can I book an appointment?
Boots say that customers will be able to book their appointments online and in store within the next few days with appointments available from mid-September.
To book an appointment for the Winter Flu Jab Service at Boots, visit: https://www.boots.com/online/pharmacy-services/winter-flu-jab-services.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article