Brunswick surgery, Surbiton Health Centre, regularly organises vaccination clinics for a range of illnesses affecting people in Britain. In September 2021, a flu clinic was in session - seeing hundreds of patients arrive for their seasonal jab.

 

Though Covid vaccination drives domineer headlines, other forms of inoculation are still fundamental for those who are in need. Such clinics come in the form of the seasonal flu jab: still taken by many and still saving many. While Covid addresses current and topical necessity, other illnesses still exist and clinics like these help to combat them.

 

The day was extremely organised, patients entered; queued; had their jabs; and then left promptly. The atmosphere (despite the early start) felt friendly and comforting. As patients were seen, the doctors reassured them of their safety as they seamlessly navigated the vaccinations. Once leaving, volunteers directed them around and out of the building. All worked in harmony and no major disruptions occurred due to flawless planning from the organisers.

 

How was it adjusted for Covid? The lingering thought was clearly present in the minds of the organisers. Measures included social distancing in queues, allowing people to keep a safe distance to prevent spread of the virus; and mandatory mask wearing, further maintaining a safe environment for doctors and patients alike. However, these measures did not bar the enthusiasm of many, with patients who came in exuding charisma and exchanging many pleasantries with those working in the day.

 

From the perspective of the patient, not much had changed for the clinic. This change was performed without any incongruence to what people had known for years. Things had changed, but all was well adjusted. One of the GPs who worked on the day, Dr Yasmin Maki, explained that ‘More precautions had to be taken, ensuring that people were able to social distance throughout was a struggle as the capacity for vaccination changes when it is required, and with the increase in vaccination clinics because of Covid the system seemed more stretched.’

 

The clinic proves how simple it is to become inoculated and keep safe from illness during these trying times. Doctors and those in the healthcare industry enable the safety of all, people should not be discouraged from visiting the doctor for basic necessity and Brunswick is a prime example of the capable hands of the NHS despite adversity faced.