Fight the Flu at Tesco Pharmacy Launch of first pharmacist-led flu jab service

Printer-friendly versionPDF version

LONDON 2 October 2008 - (PressReleasePoint) Don’t get too close to your work colleagues this winter – chances are they’ll give you the flu.

New research, commissioned by Tesco Pharmacy to mark the launch of its new Flu Jab service, has revealed that 43% of 20-40 year olds think they caught the flu from their work colleagues1.

But with the launch of the new service now anyone can protect themselves this winter.

Competitively priced at just £10, the flu vaccination service will be provided by specially trained Tesco Pharmacists and available from 8 October 2008 at nearly 150 in-store pharmacies in England and Wales.

Tesco is the first company to offer a pharmacist-led flu vaccination service. Appointments will be available throughout the day and into the evening at most stores –Tesco Pharmacies are usually open from 8am until 8pm on weekdays and Saturdays and between 10am – 4pm on Sundays, making vaccination accessible to a wide audience.

Appointments take place in private consultation areas at the Pharmacy and the injection is given in the upper arm by pharmacists who have undertaken a full flu vaccination training programme.

“By providing a Flu Jab service in our Pharmacies, we are making it convenient for adults who don’t qualify for a free NHS jab to protect themselves this winter. Our long opening hours mean it’s easy to book an appointment at a time to suit you,” comments Penny Beck, Superintendent Pharmacist at Tesco.

Workplace absences cost British employers £12bn a year and 90% of those absences are attributable to flu and colds2.

With approximately 17m Brits aged between 20-40 years old, employers can expect this age group to be off sick for a massive 24m days this winter, with up to 2.5m of them likely to catch the flu3.

Anyone can catch the flu but the research revealed a distinct lack of knowledge about the best way to protect yourself – nearly 40% of those surveyed have never considered having a flu jab despite the fact that vaccination can give up to 80% protection against infection.

A further 39% believe a flu jab isn’t needed thinking their immunity is fine, yet almost three quarters went to work at some point last winter when ill.

The research also reveals that one in eight believe the flu jab is just for old people.

“That’s not the case – vaccination is the best defence available against flu. Those over 65 and those in ‘at risk’ groups can receive the jab free of charge on the NHS but we are all susceptible to flu, particularly during winter.”

“The flu is infectious one to two days before symptoms arise so it’s no surprise so many people blame work colleagues for giving it to them,” adds Penny Beck.

The flu jab is the latest initiative to be launched by Tesco Pharmacy. A Health Check was launched in January and a Mole Check was available this summer.

It’s easy to register for a flu jab at Tesco Pharmacy. Simply call 0800 505 555 to find your nearest Tesco Pharmacy providing the service, then book directly with that Pharmacy. Appointments are not always necessary, are subject to availability, and are available from 8 October until mid December at selected stores.