Flu Jabs
The Smart Clinics are able to offer flu vaccination throughout our London clinics.
We offer two types of vaccine, both of which are indicated for preventing influenza caused by the two influenza A virus subtypes and the two influenza B virus types.
- Quadrivalent Influenza Vaccine
- Suitable for adults, including pregnant women
- Suitable for children from 6 months of age
- Fluad Tetra Vaccine
- Indicated for the prevention of influenza disease caused by the two influenza A virus subtypes and the two influenza B virus types
- Suitable for elderly adults from the age of 65 and over
Both vaccines are delivered by injection only, there are no nasal spray alternatives.
All flu vaccines are administered by one of our GP’s after a consultation to check suitability.
Private Flu Vaccination in London
The Smart Clinics offer a full service for flu jabs in all our London clinics:
There is currently excellent availability if the vaccine in all clinics. However, in case of limited stocks, our clinics will prioritise flu jabs for members and vulnerable people on a first come, first served basis. For non-member requests please contact our staff for latest information and availability. Please be aware that a non-member consultation fee will apply for GP appointments.
Do I need A Flu Jab?
Nobody relishes the thought of time out for vaccinations, but it’s far better to be protected against flu for the winter.
Flu is a very unpleasant disease and commonly leads to a couple of weeks off work and more weeks of gradual recovery back to full health. That’s why so many people choose to have private flu jabs at our London clinics.
With extended opening hours, including evenings and weekends, our private GPs offer a wide choice of availability to make it as easy as possible to fit an appointment into your busy schedule. Visit The Smart Clinics and you’ll also find a high level of care that treats you like a human being.
While flu jabs are always popular, we avoid the ‘conveyor belt’ approach and allow generous appointment times to allow for a proper appraisal and discussion before the flu jab is administered.
Flu Jab FAQ
Is a flu vaccine guaranteed to work?
Having the flu vaccine cannot give you with a 100% guarantee you won’t get flu. However, it does reduce the risk of catching it in 70-80% of cases. It also reduces the chance of you getting serious, potentially life-threatening complications from it.
What side effects are there?
- Short term soreness and/or swelling at the injection site after getting a flu jab
- Cold-like symptoms, including a mild fever, sniffles, headache, runny nose, sore throat, cough and muscle aches. These should not last for more than a day or two
It helps to understand that the flu vaccine works by causing the body to develop its own antibodies to protect against the flu virus. The antibody reaction can cause fatigue and muscle aches in some people.
Will I have a sore arm after injections?
- If an arm is sore from the jab, make sure that you keep the limb active with regular movement. This will help to prevent further stiffness.
- A heat pack, hot water bottle or warm compress can help, but if the arm feels hot and sore try an ice pack wrapped in a towel to soothe the area.
- Regular over the counter painkillers (paracetamol, ibuprofen) can be very helpful.
What are the 'At Risk' Groups?
A yearly flu jab is recommended by the NHS for people in at-risk groups which in summary, includes:
- Over 50’s
- Long-stay care residents
- Health care workers, carers and those working in social care
- Long-term medical conditions (including chronic respiratory, cardiac disease, asthma, diabetes, kidney disease, weakened immunity, stroke)
- Pregnant women – since 2010, all pregnant women have been advised to have a flu jab
However, this categorisation excludes much of the population for whom the flu jab would be very helpful.
Who should NOT get the flu jab?
- Anybody that has previously had a severe allergic reaction to a flu jab should not pursue further vaccinations.
- If you have a serious hen egg allergy please contact our staff for advice.
What age should you have the flu jab?
The Smart Clinics recommend that everybody over the age of 6 months takes this valuable immunisation to protect against the flu.The Smart Clinics’ popular membership scheme includes unlimited GP appointments and free prescription writing as well as access to a host of healthcare professionals. Please contact us to learn more.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes – the vaccine is suitable for those over th eage of 6 months. It is ideal for children who are more susceptible to the flu or for whom it would be a health risk, but can also be a sensible choice for those that may be exposed to the flu virus in a busy nursery or school environment.
It is also popular among those who are planning to sit major examinations.
