Safe to get Covid and flu vaccines on same day, pharmacist says
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As we are firmly into autumn many health experts have been warning that Covid cases could rise again. Similarly, every autumn and winter the UK’s most vulnerable people are at risk from flu. With vaccines for both available, one pharmacist is urging people to take up the offer.
As reported, eligible people are now being offered a second booster jab against coronavirus.
And for those who missed previous Covid vaccines, it’s not too late to get them.
Speaking with Express.co.uk, pharmacist for Well Pharmacy – Katie Pickles – encouraged people to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
She said: “We are still very early in the vaccination programme, and we urge all those who are eligible to book in for their covid and flu vaccines now, to ensure they protect themselves and others this winter.
“The primary objective of the autumn booster programme is to increase the immunity in those at higher risk from covid-19, protecting the most vulnerable and reducing hospital admissions.
“We can all play our part by getting vaccinated as soon as possible.”
She explained it is possible to get the Covid booster and flu jab at the same appointment.
“Flu and Covid vaccines can be administered on the same day,” she said.
“The vaccinator will usually inject one vaccine into each arm, however if this cannot be done (such as people who cannot have vaccines in a particular arm), they can be administered into the same arm approximately 2.5 centimetres apart.
“Having both vaccines on the same day means you are protected from Covid and flu as early as possible.
“It also saves time for your vaccinator as they will only need to record your details and consent once.
“A typical appointment lasts 15 minutes, so having both vaccines together frees up an appointment for somebody else – it also saves your time by coming to two separate appointments.”
She added: “It’s unlikely that any side effects will be worsened by having both vaccines together.
“If you’re able to do so, take paracetamol if you have a temperature or headache the following day or speak to your pharmacy team for more information.”
Common side effects of the Covid jab are:
- Having a painful, heavy feeling and tenderness in the arm where you had your injection – this tends to be worst around one to two days after the vaccine
- Feeling tired
- Headache
- General aches or mild flu-like symptoms.
Common side effects of the flu jab include:
- A slightly raised temperature
- Muscle aches
- Sore arm where the needle went in – this is more likely to happen with one of the vaccines for people aged 65 and over.
You can book your Covid jab through the NHS national booking website.
On the day of your appointment, you can ask the pharmacy team if you can also have your flu jab at the same time.
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