The Colne Medical Practice will start offering flu vaccinations from the end of September – but some eligible residents may have to go out of town to get a jab.
That’s because the Station Road surgery will only be vaccinating those aged between 50 – 64 who have chronic conditions. Others in that age group will have to go to a pharmacy – but currently it appears that the Brightlingsea branch of Boots will be not offering the service.
Though the local branch features on Boots’ online booking system (pictured below), no appointments are available throughout October or November. Larger Boots stores in Clacton and Colchester have availability, and vaccinations will also be available in larger supermarkets with pharmacies, such as Tesco, and other independent pharmacies.
The Station Road surgery will be vaccinating the following groups:
- Those aged six months to under 65 years in clinical risk groups
- Pregnant women
- Those aged 65 years and over
- Carers
- Household contacts of immuno-compromised individuals
- Housebound patients
- Those living in long-stay residential care homes or nursing homes
- Frontline health and social care staff
Clinic dates in Brightlingsea are as follows:
- Wednesday 28th Septamber (All age groups)
- Saturday 8th October (All age groups)
- Saturday 22nd October (all age groups)
Housebound patients will be contacted directly by the practice and given a date for their vaccination. Children who are two and three years of age but who were not aged four by August 31 this year will be sent an invitation, and parents are asked to wait for this before calling to book.
The practice says it has not been possible to offer the covid vaccine at the same time as the flu vaccination, so invitations and details of the autumn covid vaccinations will be sent to those eligible separately.
Appointments are available to book online, via the NHS App, by telephoning reception on 01206 302522 or by visiting the local practice. For more information on the flu vaccine and to check if you are eligible visit https://www.nhs.uk/…/vaccinations/flu-influenza-vaccine/
