Seasonal Immunisations
Seasonal Flu Vaccination
We are now running catch up clinics for those patients unable to attend for vaccination on Monday 3rd October 2011. Please call us to make an appointment.
The following groups of Patients are eligible for seasonal Flu vaccination:
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All patients 65 years of age and over on 31st March 2012.
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Those at higher risk due to the following chronic illnesses: Respiratory disease (including Asthma & COPD), Heart disease, Liver disease, Kidney disease, Neurological disease (including Stroke, TIAs and Multiple Sclerosis), Diabetes and those that are Immunosupressed due to disease or treatment.
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Carers – Individuals registered with the practice as Carers looking after an unwell dependent family member at home.
- All Pregnant women.
These groups are determined by the department of Health. We are unable to give you a Flu vaccination if you do not fall into one of the above groups.
Pneumococcal Vaccination
The practice offers Pneumococcal vaccination to patients in High risk groups. The vaccine provides some protection against one of the most common causes of meningitis and also against other conditions such as severe ear infections and pneumonia caused by pneumococcal bacteria.
Most people only require to receive one dose of this vaccine ever. So if you’ve had it before it’s unlikely you’ll need it again.
The vaccine is offered to the following groups of patients:
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All patients over 65 years of age.
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Those aged between 2 months and 65 years at higher risk due to the following chronic illnesses: Asplenia or splenic dysfunction, Coeliac Disease, Sickle cell anaemia, Respiratory disease (Asthmatics do not usually require this vaccine), Heart Disease, Liver Disease, Kidney Disease, Diabetes, Individuals with Cochlear implants, Individuals at risk of cerebrospinal fluid leaks from previous surgery, those who are Immunosupressed due to disease or treatment and children under 5 years with a history of invasive pneumococcal disease.
Potential Side Effects from Flu & Pneumococcal Vaccinations
Commonly reported side effects include:
- Pain, swelling, hardness or redness at the site of injection.
- Fever.
- Tiredness.
- Headache.
- Muscular aches and pains.
These are more common after receiving the pneumococcal injection and usually disappear within 2 to 3 days. A cold compress can be applied to the site of the injection. Pain relief such as Paracetamol and / or Ibuprofen can be taken at recommended doses.
Rare side effects:
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Rash.
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Facial swelling.
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Breathing difficulties.
These are serious side effects and immediate medical help should be sought by telephoning the surgery or dialling 999 for an Ambulance.