Are you going to get a private flu jab this year?

[Jules585]

If you’re not usually eligible for free NHS flu jabs, are you considering paying for one?

I never have before but I think I will this year...

(I know Covid isn’t Flu but it’s one less thing to worry about??)

[Flagsfiend]

I'm on a waiting list at the local chemist. My husband has had his, but he qualifies for an NHS one in medical grounds.

I'm a teacher so figured would be good to not get flu seeing as we are short-staffed as it is. I've never really understood why they don't give teachers flu jabs normally, seeing as how flu spreads rapidly through schools.

[PinkSparklyPussyCat]

No, I won't be having one

[cataline]

I usually pay for mine privately but my employer is paying this year.

It's worked out quite well (for my workmates anyway) because Boots have ringfenced all our 'corporate' vaccines and so even though they've been out of availability for public use recently, ours have been available.

Now that I've given that some thought, I'm not actually sure how I feel about that!

I got mine before there was a shortage so I don't personally feel too bad but I'm hoping that all those who really need a vaccination have been able to get one through a GP or other provider!

[Thimbleberries]

Yes, once the shortage is over and I can get an appointment.

or, by that time, I might be eligible for an NHS one. I turn 50 later in the season (not til after Christmas) so I don't know if that counts or not... I think usually the rule is something like if you turn 65 (or whatever age it is) before the end of March, you are eligible from when they start doing them the previous autumn. But don't know if that will be the same for the over-50s.

I have heard that the over 50 vaccines might be November some time - has anyone had an invitation for one of those yet?

In the meantime, I will still be trying to get a supermarket private one, as I'd rather pay the small amount and have it sooner, if possible.

[fluffiphlox]

Had one about a fortnight ago. Though as I’m doing my utmost to not get COVID, I’m not expecting to get flu either.

[Lulu1919]

I paid £20 at local chemist

[jusdepamplemousse]

I can’t get an NHS one despite being pregnant as they’ve run out - and don’t know when they’ll ‘get to’ pregnant people, and nowhere local has any private stock either. Feels slightly dystopian - in a v v low key small scale way!

[biddybid73]

I've already had mine at Boots. I've paid for it privately for the past 4 years (after having DS) and so far haven't had flu...

[MayFayre]

Yes. I’ve done it every year since having flu about 10 years ago. I was ill for months.

[SuzieCarmichael]

If anyone manages to get one or a booking for one can you please post on here! I am so frustrated.

[Aramox]

Same here, 50s, want one can’t get one anywhere

[NottinghamFlorest]

I paid £8 in Asda! Easy, quick... just called the pharmacy dept to book and got a next day apt.

[Smileyoriley]

I had one I booked at Superdrug a few days ago. Local pharmacies had run out and our local Boots- useless as ever- have closed their waiting list. I think it’s just a question of seeing what’s available locally and keep checking. I’m over 60 but under 65 so didn’t qualify for NHS jab at my GP. Like many people I’ve never had one until this year hence the shortages I guess.

[itbemay1]

50-64 year olds are eligible under NHS, check with your GP surgery if they are offering them as I know they were asked to do the at risk first

[inchoccyheaven]

There is now a nationwide shortage and we were expecting to get more deliveries for November but now that has been delayed. This is NHS. It is frustrating but so many more people are getting vaccinated than usual.

[Stripyhoglets1]

Yes. Booked for November as was earliest we could book. I paid for one last year for the first time. Not sure how I'd catch flu as still being very careful but it won't hurt to have one.

[frozendaisy]

Try Tesco pharmacy, I managed to get DH booked in a couple of weeks ago he had to wait 17 days but it's done now

[Smileyoriley]

itbemay1

50-64 year olds are eligible under NHS, check with your GP surgery if they are offering them as I know they were asked to do the at risk first

My GP surgery refused me as they don’t have enough vaccines apparently. My DP and DGC both had them as vulnerable so I guess it is supply and demand-a very elderly population where I live.

[loriat]

I'm 54 and not usually eligible for a free vaccine. GP surgery are not offering to over 50s as yet due to a lack of vaccines. I tried to book a paid vaccination at Tesco and a couple of other places with no luck. However, I phoned our local pharmacy and they vaccinated me later that day, so I think it's worth checking locally as there may be availability.

[Carpballs]

Yes, had mine at the end of September at Boots before they ran out.

I get one every year, so this year is no different

[Happyspud]

Yes, had it yesterday

[Goldistheanswer]

I’ve got two disabled children who cannot even get vaccinated at the GP surgery due to the shortage. I spoke to the practice manager yesterday and he said there may be some stock arriving mid November but can’t guarantee it. If my kids get the flu, they get so unwell that they have to be hospitalised. It’s an awful situation.

[Firebird83]

I got one a couple of weeks ago at Boots.

[Happyspud]

@Goldistheanswer how old are your kids? I think up to age 17 they should get the nasal spray. From what I understand there is no shortage of that?

Did you call around pharmacies to try book one in? I know you're entitled to it for free but I'd be sorting it myself if it seemed my GP was unable.

[Goldistheanswer]

They’re unable to have the nasal spray due to their medical condition so have to have the injection.