The annual flu vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself and those around you from influenza. At Bannerman’s Pharmacy, we offer free NHS flu vaccinations to all eligible patients across our branches in Glasgow and Central Scotland. No appointment is needed. Simply walk in during opening hours.
Not eligible for the NHS flu vaccine? We also offer a Private Flu Vaccination service for the wider community.
Who Is Eligible for the Free NHS Flu Vaccine?
In Scotland, eligibility is based on advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) and is reviewed annually by Public Health Scotland. You can receive a free NHS flu vaccine at Bannerman’s Pharmacy if you are aged 18 or over and meet one or more of the following criteria:
Age
- Aged 65 years or over
Long-Term Health Conditions
- Chronic respiratory disease, including asthma requiring continuous or repeated use of inhaled or systemic steroids, or with previous exacerbations requiring hospital admission
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Chronic heart, kidney, or liver disease
- Chronic neurological conditions
- Diabetes
- A weakened immune system due to a medical condition or treatment
Other Eligible Groups
- Pregnant women, at any stage of pregnancy
- People living in a long-stay residential care home or nursing home
- The main carer for an elderly or disabled person, or those in receipt of a carer’s allowance
- People who live with someone who has a weakened immune system
- Frontline health and social care workers
- Poultry workers
- People experiencing homelessness or substance misuse
- Asylum seekers living in a Home Office hotel or bed and breakfast accommodation
Please note: the NHS flu vaccination service at Bannerman’s Pharmacy is available to patients aged 18 and over. Children and young people under 18 who are eligible should contact their GP surgery or school immunisation team.
Why Get the Flu Vaccine?
Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can cause severe symptoms, complications, and hospitalisation, particularly in high-risk groups. The flu virus changes each year, which is why vaccination is recommended annually. Getting vaccinated not only protects you but also helps reduce the spread of flu to vulnerable people in your community.
Bannerman’s Pharmacy only administers vaccines in line with current JCVI and Public Health Scotland recommendations, updated each season to match the strains expected to circulate.
Flu Vaccine and Egg Allergy
Following updated JCVI guidance, people with an egg allergy can safely receive any flu vaccine recommended for them. It is important to tell your pharmacist if you have ever had a serious allergic reaction to anything before your vaccination, so they can select the most appropriate option for you.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Getting your flu jab at Bannerman’s is quick and straightforward, typically taking around 15 minutes from start to finish:
- Your pharmacist will confirm your eligibility and answer any questions you have.
- The vaccine is given as a small injection into the upper arm and takes only a few seconds.
- You may notice mild side effects afterwards, including a sore arm, mild fever, or muscle aches. These normally pass within one to two days and are a sign your immune system is responding. You cannot catch the flu virus from the vaccine.
If side effects persist beyond a few days or you experience a serious reaction, contact your pharmacist or GP.
Not Eligible for the NHS Flu Vaccine?
If you do not meet the NHS eligibility criteria, you can still protect yourself this winter with a private flu vaccination, available to any adult aged 18 to 65 for £16.
Find out more about our Private Flu Vaccination service, or explore our full range of vaccination services, including travel health vaccinations.
Get Your Free Flu Jab at Bannerman’s Pharmacy
Do not wait until flu season is in full swing. Walk-ins are welcome at all Bannerman’s branches during opening hours, or you can book an appointment online.
Find your nearest branch or book an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment?
No. Bannerman’s operates a walk-in service for NHS flu vaccinations. You can also book online if you prefer a specific time.
How long does the vaccine take to work?
It takes up to 14 days to build full protection after your jab. This is why getting vaccinated in early autumn, before flu begins circulating widely, is recommended.
Can the flu vaccine give me flu?
No. The injected flu vaccine does not contain a live virus and cannot cause flu. Mild side effects such as a sore arm or muscle aches are a sign your immune system is responding normally.
Is the flu vaccine safe during pregnancy?
Yes. The flu vaccine is strongly recommended at any stage of pregnancy. It protects both the mother from serious complications and the baby for the first few months after birth.
Do I need a flu vaccine every year?
Yes. The influenza virus changes each year, and the vaccine is updated annually to match the strains expected to circulate that winter. Last year’s vaccine may not protect against this year’s strains.
What if I have an egg allergy?
Following updated JCVI guidance, people with an egg allergy can safely receive any flu vaccine recommended for them. Please tell your pharmacist about any allergies before your vaccination.
