A SOUTHAMPTON pharmacy is taking part in a campaign to boost the uptake of flu jabs and help save lives.

Health charities have joined forces to encourage more people to protect themselves and their families - and help ease the pressure on the NHS - by getting vaccinated against the flu.

The virus can be deadly for people with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.

Experts say the jab is associated with a 50% reduction in mortality during flu season for people living with type 2 diabetes.

People with heart and circulatory diseases can cut the risk of a heart attack by 27% and of dying by 25% if they have the vaccine.

The winter of 2019/20 saw around 6,600 excess deaths from heart and circulatory diseases in the UK, with flu likely to have been a contributory factor.

Now the pharmacy at the Tesco superstore in Tebourba Way, Millbrook, is operating an online booking system for people who want a flu jab.

Superintendent pharmacist Adrian Price said: “We want to make getting your vaccination as easy as doing the weekly shop.

"We’re doing all we can to make it as convenient as possible for people to get their flu jab to protect themselves and their families. This is the most important flu jab ever for those at risk.”

Maureen Talbot is senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation.

She said: "People with conditions including heart disease, diabetes and many cancers are at increased risk of severe illness if they get the flu.

"This year, the presence of Covid-19 adds to that risk, so it’s even more important that people get vaccinated.

“Getting the jab will ensure you’re protecting yourself as well as playing your part in helping ease pressure on the NHS at an extremely busy time.”

Extensive Covid-19 safety and social distancing measures are in place at the pharmacy to ensure customers using the service feel safe.

Flu jabs are given by a pharmacist in a private consultation room that is cleaned before each appointment.