Patients at the Frome Medical Practice are being urged to book their vaccination before the winter sets in.
As part of a new system of flu clinics, patients are now being offered early morning appointments, as well as at lunchtime and during the evening.
Senior partner at the practice, Dr Helen Kingston says, “We are simply responding to patient feedback. Hopefully, our new system of flu vaccination clinics will make it substantially easier for those patients who are working or who have family or other commitments.
“From early morning through to the evening, a wide spread of appointment slots will now be available.”
As with previous years, the flu vaccinations are free for those who are over 65 as well as those who are pregnant. Adults and children aged two to four who have long term health problems are also eligible on the free treatment scheme. Those over 65 are also entitled to a free pneumonia vaccination providing lifetime cover.
Dr Kingston says that by the middle of October, 1,630 patients had already been vaccinated with another 320 having booked appointments at the flu clinics.
“However, we estimate that there are approximately 8,000 patients on our list who are eligible for a free vaccination,” adds Dr Kingston. “This includes the main carers of those who are disabled or elderly and whose welfare would be at risk in the event of their carer becoming ill.
“I would also want parents to know that we would particularly welcome healthy young children aged two to four to take up this free treatment opportunity. For this age group, the children receive the vaccine in nasal spray form.”
Patients wishing to book their flu clinic appointment can do so online at www.fromemedicalpractice.co.uk by phoning 01373 301301 or in person with the reception team.
