Brits not getting flu jabs because they’re scared to go to GPs or pharmacies

Nearly a third of Brits (28%) say they won’t get a flu jab this winter because they don’t want to go to GP surgeries, hospitals, pharmacies, or visit a health professional as the coronavirus pandemic enters a second wave, according to new research published today.

The research, commissioned by Asda Pharmacy, reveals that nearly 75% of Brits have expressed concern about visiting GPs or pharmacies because they’re worried they could be in contact with someone who is ill. The study also shows that nearly half (40%) of UK adults are worried that it would be harder to get treatment for flu this winter as a result of a coronavirus crisis and are, therefore, forgoing the flu jab altogether.

As restrictions tighten in the UK and more areas facing local lockdowns, healthcare professionals are urging the public to not compromise on their health. New measures are being introduced to ensure that the public are not missing out on vital services – one such measure being the launch of the UK’s first ever drive-through flu jab centres in various cities across the UK for vulnerable groups in society and frontline care workers.

Aston spoke to Maq Din, a leading pharmacist to discuss the research in further detail and also the importancy on getting a flu jab this winter.

Photo by Bill Oxford on Unsplash