We run the following seasonal services:
- Flu
This year at Kingsway surgery, everyone over 65 yrs will be offered a new flu vaccination which has been recommended by NHS England. This is because extensive research has proven that it provides better immunity than other flu vaccinations in this age group.
We will be holding an “OVER 65s ONLY” flu clinic on:
Saturday 15th September 2018.
If you are over 65, please book an appointment at reception as soon as possible. Please note, no other age groups will be seen at this clinic.
Other flu clinics will be held in October and November, (dates to be confirmed). Anyone who is eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination can book an appointment in the clinics. This will include anyone in an ‘at risk group’, (e.g diabetes, COPD, severe heart or kidney disease, those with a low immune system).
ASTHMA
People with asthma need to be taking regular preventer (brown, red or purple) inhalers to qualify for an NHS flu jab - that means every day, not just occasionally, and not just a reliever (blue) inhaler. In these cases you are welcome to attend a local pharmacy which will provide the vaccination at a small cost.
The NHS provide very strict criteria to which we must adhere, so please do not be offended if we decline to give you a flu vaccination on these grounds. Even if you have had the vaccine in the past, regulations change regularly and it may not be possible to offer it on that basis.
CHILDREN
We will be sending letters of invitation to all families who have a 2 or 3 year old toddler to attend for nasal flu vaccination. This is a spray into each nostril, NOT an injection. These children are determined by birthday dates, and again, not all children will be eligible. If you receive a letter, please contact the surgery to make an appointment, which will be on a Saturday in October and November.
Older children up to the age of 18yrs in ‘at risk’ groups may also be eligible for the nasal spray, or alternatively a small number may need an injection instead. NO LETTERS WILL BE SENT FOR THIS AGE GROUP. If in doubt, contact the surgery for advice
SCHOOL VACCINATION
Some older children will be offered the nasal spray / injection at school, depending on the year group. Unfortunately, if your child misses this opportunity the surgery is unable to provide it UNLESS they are in an at risk group.
FLU IS A SERIOUS ILLNESS, NOT A HEAVY COLD. Please ensure you book your appointment as soon as possible.
