B1English

Getting a Test or Vaccine

Use these practical phrases when you need to book a medical test, get a vaccine, or ask about your results at a clinic or pharmacy.

Key Phrases

Voice
Booking an appointment · 2 ways to say it

Can I get a flu shot today?

casual

US English — 'shot' is commonly used for a vaccine.

I'd like to book an appointment for a flu jab.

neutral

UK English — 'jab' is commonly used for a vaccine.

Asking which vaccine · 2 ways to say it

Which brand are you giving out today?

casual

Uses the common phrasal verb 'give out'.

Could you tell me which vaccine this is?

polite
Explaining where it hurts · 2 ways to say it

My throat hurts a lot when I swallow.

casual

I have a sore arm right here.

neutral
Asking about side effects · 2 ways to say it

Is this going to make me feel sick?

casual

What are the common side effects?

neutral
Asking about results · 2 ways to say it

When will I find out if I have it?

casual

Use 'find out' when asking when you will receive the news.

How long does it take to get the test results?

neutral
Asking for proof · 2 ways to say it

Will I get a card to show I've had it?

casual

Could I get a vaccination certificate for my job?

polite
Expressing nervousness · 2 ways to say it

I'm a bit nervous because I hate needles.

casual

I don't do very well with injections.

neutral
Checking what to do next · 2 ways to say it

Do I need to wait around after I get it?

casual

Should I sit in the waiting room for fifteen minutes?

neutral

Practice Dialogue

Patient
Hi, I have an appointment for a flu shot at two.
Pharmacist
Right. Can I get your name and date of birth?
Patient
Sure, it's Mark Davis, October 4th, 1990.
Pharmacist
Thanks. So, are you feeling well today? No fever or cough?
Patient
I feel fine. I'm a bit nervous because I hate needles, though.
Pharmacist
Don't worry, it's really quick. Which arm do you prefer?
Patient
My left arm, please. Will this make me feel sick later?
Pharmacist
You might get a sore arm, but that's about it. All done.
Patient
Oh, wow. I didn't even feel it.
Pharmacist
See? Now, just wait around in the lobby for fifteen minutes, okay?
Patient
Will do. Thanks a lot.

More Health & Pharmacy (B1)

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