Each winter, flu puts real pressure on people, families and the NHS. A quick flu jab helps protect you and Every winter, the flu puts pressure on families, workplaces, and the NHS. It’s not just a bad cold — it’s a serious illness that leads to thousands of hospital admissions and deaths across the UK each year. Getting your flu jab from Village Pharmacy in Charlton is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself and those around you.
Flu can be more serious than you think
Flu can come on suddenly and leave you feeling exhausted, feverish, and unable to carry on with daily life. For many, it passes after a week, but for some, particularly older adults, pregnant women, and people with long-term conditions, flu can trigger serious complications like pneumonia.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported that during the 2024–2025 winter season, flu was linked to over 7,700 excess deaths in England. Vaccination remains the most effective defence.
Who can get a free NHS flu jab
The NHS offers the flu vaccine free of charge to those most at risk, including:
- Adults aged 65 and over
- Pregnant women
- People with certain long-term health conditions (like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease)
- Carers and frontline healthcare staff
- Children aged 2 to 16 (usually offered a nasal spray vaccine)
If you’re not eligible for a free jab, Village Pharmacy offers a private flu vaccination service that’s quick, affordable, and available to anyone wanting extra protection before winter.
Does the flu vaccine really work?
Yes — and it’s updated every year to protect against the most common circulating strains.
Data from the 2023–2024 season showed flu vaccines were up to 65% effective in preventing infection among children, and provided strong protection for adults too. Even if you still catch flu, the vaccine helps make symptoms milder and reduces the risk of serious illness.
Protecting others by protecting yourself
Flu spreads quickly through coughing, sneezing, and contaminated surfaces. Getting vaccinated protects you, your family, and those who are more vulnerable — like elderly relatives, babies, and people with weakened immune systems.
Vaccinating children has a big community benefit too, helping stop the virus spreading through schools and households.
When should I book my flu jab?
The best time to get vaccinated is early autumn, before flu starts spreading widely. It takes about two weeks for your body to build immunity, so don’t wait until it’s already circulating.
You can easily book your appointment at Village Pharmacy, 9 The Village, London SE7 8UG, either for a free NHS flu jab (if you’re eligible) or a private one if you’re not. The process is quick and handled by our friendly, trained pharmacists.
Common questions about the flu jab
Is the flu jab safe?
Yes — it’s been safely used in the UK for decades. Most people only get mild side effects like a sore arm or low temperature for a day or two.
Can I get flu and COVID vaccines together?
Yes, if eligible, you can safely receive both vaccines at the same time to build protection ahead of winter.
Can the flu jab give me flu?
No — the injectable vaccine does not contain live virus and cannot cause flu.
Why it matters
The flu jab helps prevent illness, keeps people out of hospital, and reduces strain on NHS services during winter. It’s a small step that makes a big difference — to you, your family, and the community around you.
Book your flu jab at Village Pharmacy
Protect yourself and others this winter. Visit Village Pharmacy, 9 The Village, London SE7 8UG, or call 020 8858 0907 to book your appointment.
Walk-ins are welcome, and our team will make sure you’re protected quickly and safely.
Stay healthy this winter, get vaccinated with Village Pharmacy.
