Flu jabs are increasingly harder to come by this year, as the public looks to improve their defense ahead of the annual influenza season. But Boots have suspended their booking service for flu jabs over unusually high demand.
Seasonal flu is a type of respiratory infection that’s caused by the influenza viruses.
The infection usually lasts no longer than two weeks, but it can be fatal in some individuals.
Those most at risk of serious complications from flu include the elderly, pregnant women, young children, and those with chronic medical conditions.
But amid fears of a new coronavirus spike in cases, there has been an exceptionally high demand for flu jabs.
Boots have already asked the public not to go into their stores with the intention of getting a flu jab.
The retailer is currently in the process of gaining more stock, so that they can unblock their booking service.
“Due to unprecedented demand for flu vaccinations this year and stock availability we have had to suspend bookings,” a statement read on Boots’ website.
“Please do not visit your local store to book an appointment at this time.
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“We are working hard to acquire additional stock of the flu vaccine so that we are able to make appointments available again.”
Boots had expected to deliver more than one million flu jabs this winter.
It’s still not entirely clear when Boots will re-open its flu jab service, however.
But you can still find flu vaccines in other shops, right now. These are the cheapest places to find one.
Asda
More than 255 Asda stores have a pharmacy, and they’re open seven days a week. You can grab a flu jab at Asda for £8.
Tesco
Flu jabs are only available at certain Tesco stores. But if you do find one, it’ll cost you £9.
Superdrug
Superdrug are offering a walk-in service for their flu jabs this year. One vaccine will cost you £12.99.
LloydsPharmacy
You can book an appointment for a flu jab online at LloydsPharmacy. Alternatively you can walk into your local store. Either way, the vaccine will be available for £12.99.
Certain people are eligible to have a free NHS flu jab, however.
It’s offered to anyone aged 65 and over, or those with underlying medical conditions.
Pregnant women, and people living in care homes can also apply for a flu jab, as well as front-line health and care workers.
If you’d rather not visit a pharmacy for a flu jab, you could also book an appointing at your local GP surgery.
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