RICHMOND MP Rishi Sunak has urged eligible constituents to ensure they have a flu jab this winter.
With winter looming, the free vaccinations are available at community pharmacies to those who qualify – the over 65s, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions such as asthma and diabetes
Mr Sunak visited The Village Pharmacy in the High Street, Catterick Village, to find out more about the national pharmacy flu vaccination service.
He was told by pharmacist Paul Gale that the vaccinations are given by trained staff and no appointment is necessary.
The service is funded by the Government through NHS England and is designed to make it easier to get a flu jab and to increase the number of, ‘at risk’, people across England being protected from ill health over the winter months. At the start of the scheme a year ago the take-up was only 50 per cent.
Rishi Sunak MP commented: “This is an excellent service and so accessible, with no appointments required. It’s so easy and very quick. I urge all my constituents who are eligible for a free flu jab to ensure they have one.”
Mr Gale said the vaccination was also available to those not in the eligible categories at a cost of about £10.