Flu Vaccination
Stay protected this winter with your 2026 seasonal flu vaccine.
At Wilsons Local Pharmacy, our experienced pharmacists provide safe, professional flu vaccinations in a convenient community setting.
Booking your appointment takes less than a minute, and most vaccinations are completed in around 10 minutes.
Book your Winter Flu Vaccine today and help protect yourself, your family and your community.
What is influenza (flu)?
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious virus that affects your nose, throat and lungs. Unlike the common cold, flu symptoms usually come on suddenly and can leave you feeling very unwell.
Common symptoms include:
- High temperature (fever)
- Chills and sweating
- Muscle and joint aches
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Dry cough
- Extreme tiredness
- Loss of appetite
Most healthy people recover within a week, but flu can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, chest infections and hospital admission in people who are more vulnerable.
Why should I get the flu vaccine?
The flu virus changes every year. That’s why a new flu vaccine is produced annually to protect against the strains expected to circulate during the winter season.
Getting vaccinated can help:
- Reduce your chance of catching flu.
- Lower your risk of becoming seriously ill.
- Reduce the likelihood of hospital admission.
- Protect vulnerable family members and friends.
- Help reduce the spread of flu throughout the community.
Even if you do catch flu after vaccination, you’re more likely to experience a milder illness.
Who should get a flu vaccine?
Flu vaccination is particularly important if you:
- Are aged 65 years or older
- Are pregnant
- Have asthma or other lung conditions
- Have diabetes
- Have heart disease
- Have kidney or liver disease
- Have a weakened immune system
- Live in a nursing home or long-term care facility
- Care for someone who is medically vulnerable
- Work in healthcare or have regular contact with vulnerable people
If you're unsure whether the vaccine is recommended for you, our pharmacy team will be happy to advise.
Is the flu vaccine safe?
Yes.
The flu vaccine has an excellent safety record and is carefully monitored every year. Millions of people receive the vaccine safely across Europe each winter.
The vaccine cannot give you flu. Some people may experience mild side effects such as:
- Soreness where the injection was given
- Mild headache
- Feeling tired
- Slight temperature for a day or two
These side effects are usually mild and settle quickly.
When is the best time to get vaccinated?
The best time to receive your flu vaccine is before flu begins spreading widely in the community, usually during the autumn months.
However, it’s still worthwhile getting vaccinated later in the season if you haven’t already done so.
The protection develops around two weeks after vaccination.
Can I get the flu vaccine if I have a cold?
If you have a mild cold without a fever, you can usually still receive your flu vaccine.
If you’re feeling unwell with a high temperature, it may be better to postpone your appointment until you’ve recovered.
Our pharmacist can advise you if you’re unsure.
Can I receive other vaccines at the same time?
In many cases, yes.
The flu vaccine can often be given alongside other routine vaccinations. If you’re eligible for additional seasonal vaccines, our pharmacist will discuss the most suitable options during your appointment.
FAQs
Does the vaccine give immediate protection?
No. It usually takes around two weeks for your body to build protection.
Do I need a flu vaccine every year?
Yes. The flu virus changes every year, so annual vaccination offers the best protection.
How long does the appointment take?
Most appointments take approximately 10 minutes.
What should I wear?
Please wear clothing that allows easy access to your upper arm.
Do I need to prepare beforehand?
No special preparation is required. Simply arrive a few minutes before your appointment.
Book Your Winter Flu Vaccination Today
Protect yourself this winter by booking your 2026 Flu Vaccine at Wilsons Local Pharmacy.
Appointments are quick, convenient and carried out by experienced healthcare professionals.
Book online today and stay protected this winter.
