Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer recently visited the London Covent Garden Boots store to get his flu jab as Boots Superintendent Pharmacist Claire Nevinson encourages others to book an appointment for their jab to stay protected this winter.  

During his visit he spoke with the pharmacy team to understand more about how they help patients everyday by delivering vital healthcare services on the high street. Alongside the Winter Flu Vaccination Service, the team at Boots Covent Garden told the Prime Minister about how popular the NHS Pharmacy First Service and the NHS Blood Pressure Check Service has been among their customers locally.  

Free NHS flu vaccinations* are now available at Boots in England and Wales for pregnant women and other eligible groups. The flu jab is also available for private patients, subject to availability.** 

Claire Nevinson, Superintendent Pharmacist at Boots said: “The flu virus, which can spread more easily in the winter months can make people of all ages feel really unwell, but some groups can be at increased risk of serious complications including children under five, adults aged 65 and over and pregnant women. 

“Vaccinations offer the best protection against flu for everyone. The best time to get the flu vaccination for maximum protection is the start of autumn, before the virus begins to circulate widely. This allows the body to obtain optimum protection and immunity. After receiving the vaccination, it usually takes around 10 to 14 days to be protected. 

“Protection from the flu vaccination goes down with time and the types of flu virus the vaccination protects against are updated each year. This is why it's important to get the flu vaccination every year.” 

For those experiencing seasonal ailments like coughs, colds and flu, patients can also speak to their local pharmacy team as a first port of call for help. With no appointment needed, pharmacy teams can offer advice and recommend treatments to ease symptoms. 

To book a flu vaccination visit boots.com/flu or visit your local Boots store.    

* The free NHS (or other locally funded) flu jab is available in most Boots pharmacies in England and Wales and in some Boots pharmacies in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Jersey. Eligibility criteria apply and vary with locality. Subject to availability.  

** The Boots Private Winter Flu Jab Service is available in selected Boots stores. Subject to specially trained pharmacist and stock availability. Eligibility criteria apply. Service costs £21.95 and £26.95 in Jersey. See boots.com/flu for more details.