Getting Ready for Autumn – Simple Steps to Stay Well

September brings a change of pace for many of us in Bushmead, Stopsley, Wigmore and across Luton. Children are back at school, routines are returning and cooler autumn weather is on its way.

It’s also a good time to think about your health before winter arrives. From checking whether you’re eligible for a flu vaccination to knowing when your local pharmacy can help with a common health problem, a little preparation now can make the months ahead easier.

Is It Time to Think About Your Flu Vaccination?

Yes – although when you can have your NHS flu vaccination depends on your circumstances.

The NHS flu vaccination programme has started for some groups this September. Pregnant women are among those who can receive their flu vaccination from September, while most other eligible adults will be vaccinated from 1 October 2026.

The free NHS flu vaccine is offered to people who are at greater risk of becoming seriously unwell from flu. This includes people aged 65 and over, people with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women and some carers, among other eligible groups.

If you’re eligible, you can check when you can receive your vaccination and arrange it through an appropriate NHS vaccination provider.

Not sure whether you’re eligible? Our pharmacy team can help you understand the current guidance and where appropriate direct you to the right service.

Remember – Your Pharmacist Can Help With More Than Medicines

When you’re feeling unwell, your GP surgery isn’t always the only place you can seek help.

Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, community pharmacists can assess and provide appropriate treatment for several common conditions without you needing a GP appointment first.

Depending on your age and symptoms, Pharmacy First currently includes clinical pathways for conditions such as:

• Sinusitis
• Sore throat
• Earache in children
• Infected insect bites
• Impetigo
• Shingles
• Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women

Your pharmacist will assess your symptoms and determine the most appropriate next step. That may include advice, treatment where clinically appropriate, or referring you to another healthcare professional if you need further assessment.

Community pharmacy services are continuing to develop, too. The NHS has announced plans to expand pharmacy care for additional common conditions during autumn 2026.

When Did You Last Check Your Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure often does not cause noticeable symptoms, which means you may not know you have it without having your blood pressure checked.

September can therefore be a useful opportunity to add a blood pressure check to your health routine, particularly if you haven’t had one recently.

At Bushmead Pharmacy, we can provide blood pressure checks and explain your readings. Where necessary, we can also advise you about the appropriate next steps.

It’s a simple check that can provide useful information about your cardiovascular health.

Get Your Medicines Ready for Autumn

As routines change after summer, it’s worth taking a few minutes to look through the medicines you regularly use at home.

A simple autumn medicines check might include:

• Checking that you have enough of your regular prescribed medicines
• Ordering repeat prescriptions in good time
• Checking expiry dates on medicines you keep at home
• Making sure medicines are stored correctly
• Speaking to your pharmacist if you’re unsure how to take a medicine

Please don’t stockpile prescription medicines. The aim is simply to avoid running out and to make sure the medicines you already have are being stored and used appropriately.

If you have questions about a new medicine, side effects or how to take your treatment, speak to our pharmacy team.

We’re Here for Our Local Community

Autumn often brings a change in routine, but looking after your health doesn’t need to be complicated.

As your local independent pharmacy, we’re here to support patients across Bushmead, Stopsley, Wigmore and the surrounding areas with everyday health advice, NHS pharmacy services and private healthcare services.

If you’re unsure which service you need, simply speak to a member of our pharmacy team and we’ll help point you in the right direction.