PEOPLE over 65 and anyone in a clinical risk group can get a free flu jab as part of a walk-in service in community pharmacies across Somerset.

And under the first national pharmacy vaccination scheme, people of pension age or with conditions such as asthma and diabetes often won’t even need to make an appointment.

Pharmacists will be using the same vaccination as that offered by GPs, and they will be required to notify GPs when they have vaccinated people.

Evidence from the local scheme has shown the convenience of pharmacy’s walk-in service, and gives the NHS benefits in increasing uptake in eligible groups and helps to meet World Health Organisation targets.

Lynda Coles, chairman of Somerset Local Pharmaceutical Committee, said: “Community pharmacy provision of NHS flu vaccinations means many eligible adult patients will have greater access to this service.

“Many people may choose pharmacy because they are unable to attend GP clinics, due to factors such as their work hours, and because they can visit pharmacies in a variety of locations and without the need to book an appointment.

“Community pharmacists in Somerset are looking forward to taking on this challenge, and are keen to work with colleagues in general practice to help ensure that as many eligible people as possible are vaccinated this year.

“The national service is an important step forward for community pharmacy as it expands its provision of care and public health services alongside the dispensing of medicines.”