Winter Flu (Influenza) Vaccination Clinics will again take place as drive-through clinics at the Lake Road Verwood surgery site.

Vaccinations are being rolled out on a phased basis in line with national advice.

The surgery is encouraging patients to book appointments online rather than over the phone to help with staffing.

Currently scheduled Flu Vaccination Clinics are:

• Sunday 12th September morning from 9am – for patients aged 65 and over
• Sunday 19th September morning from 9am – for patients aged 18 – 64 who are in an eligible At-Risk Group, including pregnant women.

The Department of Health has confirmed the temporary measure to offer 50 to 64-year- olds the flu vaccine will apply again for Winter 2021/22. Patients in this group are invited to book a slot at the 19th September clinic.

This year, more than ever, it is crucial for as many eligible people as possible to take up the offer of a free NHS flu vaccine.

“Flu levels were extremely low globally in 2020 to 2021,” says Dr Andy Levinson, GP Partner at the Practice. “ As a result, a lower level of population immunity against influenza is expected in 2021 to 2022. As social mixing and social contact return towards pre-pandemic norms, it is expected that this will be the first winter in the UK when seasonal influenza virus (and other respiratory viruses) will co-circulate alongside COVID-19.”

Since 2013, influenza vaccination has been offered to children as a nasal vaccine through schools, although the Cranborne Practice will hold clinics later in the Autumn for children aged 2 – 3 years in line with the phased programme. Details of clinic dates for 2 to 3 year-olds will be announced at a later date.

For details of how to book a Winter Flu Vaccination and other vaccination services offered by the Practice, visit myvaccination.co.uk.