Morrisons has started its annual winter flu vaccination service at its in-store pharmacies, offering free NHS jabs to eligible patients as temperatures drop across the UK.
Who can get a free NHS flu jab
Free NHS flu vaccinations are available to eligible groups, including people aged over 65, pregnant women, and those with certain underlying health conditions. The NHS states that the vaccine helps protect against flu, and if a vaccinated person still catches the virus, symptoms are likely to be milder and not last as long, reducing the risk of needing hospital care for serious flu illness.
Pricing and More Card discount
For customers who do not qualify for a free NHS jab, the flu vaccine costs £16.50. Morrisons More Card members can receive a discounted price of £13 by scanning their membership card when paying at the pharmacy.
John Parry, head of pharmacy at Morrisons, said: "We’re here to support the health and wellbeing of our customers, helping them stay protected throughout flu season with our good, honest value."
"Our pharmacies offer a convenient way for customers to get their flu jab, and we’re committed to making vaccination as accessible as possible. Whether customers are looking to protect themselves, their families or those around them, our friendly pharmacy teams are here to help keep communities healthy this winter," he added.
How the vaccine works
The NHS explains that the flu vaccine is designed to protect against the strains of flu virus most likely to circulate each season. While it cannot guarantee complete immunity, people who catch flu after being vaccinated are generally less likely to become seriously ill and often experience milder symptoms for a shorter period.
It typically takes up to two weeks for the vaccine to provide full protection. Because immunity can decrease over time and the vaccine is updated each year to target the latest flu strains, health experts recommend getting vaccinated annually.
Most people who are eligible for the flu vaccine can have it. The NHS said that the vaccine cannot be given only if a person has had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of the vaccine or an ingredient in the vaccine.
