Valley Road Medical Practice

31/08/2026

With children heading back to school this week, it can be tricky deciding whether or not to keep your child at home if they are feeling unwell.

If you're unsure, see our advice on when a child should be kept at home.

➡️ https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/is-my-child-too-ill-for-school/

31/08/2026

Flu isn't just a bad cold. It can lead to serious illness for children and can spread quickly to family members.

The flu vaccination for children aged 4 to 16 years of age is available from 1 September, offered through school. Look out for updates from your child's school and do return consent forms promptly.

Find out more and check eligibility: https://orlo.uk/2exZv

30/08/2026

Starting uni this autumn? 🎓
Make sure you're protected against MenB before term starts.

If you've had your first MenB vaccine, don't forget your second. You need 2 doses, at least 4 weeks apart, for the best protection.

You may be eligible for a free vaccine if you're:
✅ 17-18 and born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008
✅ Under 25 and starting university for the first time this autumn.

Find out more: https://www.nhs.uk/book-menb

30/08/2026

Did you know that you can request a limited emergency supply of a medicine you’ve completely run out of via NHS 111?

This must be a medicine you are prescribed regularly, through a repeat prescription. You will be charged your usual prescription fee. If you do not usually pay, it will be free.

Full details including when you can’t use the service can be found here: https://111.nhs.uk/emergency-prescription

28/08/2026

Thunderstorms can trigger symptoms for those with lung conditions, like asthma.

If the weather makes your symptoms worse and you need to use your inhaler more, talk to your pharmacist, contact your GP or NHS 111.

28/08/2026

25/08/2026

Millions of women in England are to be offered HPV self-testing kits as the new service rolls out from today.

The kits will be offered to those who haven’t attended cervical screening following previous invitations, providing a discreet and convenient way to test for high-risk HPV at home.

➡️ https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/08/nhs-rolls-out-discreet-home-testing-kits-against-cervical-cancer-for-millions-of-women/

24/08/2026

We will be closed on Bank Holiday Monday. Surgery will reopen on Tuesday 1st September at 8.00am.

23/08/2026

Heading to uni or moving into student accommodation this autumn? A one-off MenB vaccine programme is now available from July 2026 for eligible students to help protect against meningitis and sepsis, which can be life-threatening. You only need 2 doses and its free for eligible students.

All those who are eligible can continue to get first doses until 31 December 2026; they can get their second dose up to 31 March 2027.

Sharing accommodation and meeting new people can increase risk, getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to stay protected.

Don’t wait, please book your vaccine early so you’re protected before term starts. For more information, please visit https://orlo.uk/4reXJ

To find your nearest pharmacy please visit https://orlo.uk/elWoO