The significance of flu vaccination stems from its ability to mitigate the potential dangers of influenza. While flu might cause discomfort for the majority, certain individuals, especially those with specific health conditions, can face severe and life-threatening consequences.

Ideally, the autumn or early winter period, preceding the peak of flu transmission, is the prime time for receiving your flu vaccine. However, if this window is missed, you can still avail the vaccine at a later point.

Who can have the flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine is given free on the NHS to adults who:

• are 65 and over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2024)

• are pregnant

• are in long-stay residential care

• receive a carer's allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick

• live with someone who is more likely to get a severe infection due to a weakened immune system, such as someone living with HIV, someone who has had a transplant, or is having certain treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis

• respiratory conditions, such as asthma (needing a steroid inhaler or tablets), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including emphysema and bronchitis

• diabetes

• heart conditions, such as coronary heart disease or heart failure

• being very overweight – a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above

• chronic kidney disease

• liver disease, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis

• some neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's disease, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), or cerebral palsy

• a learning disability

• problems with your spleen like sickle cell disease, or if you've had your spleen removed

• a weakened immune system as a result of conditions such as HIV and AIDS, or taking medicines such as steroid tablets or chemotherapy

If none of these apply to you, you may still receive the flu vaccination privately through our pharmacy.

Effectiveness of the Flu Vaccine

• The flu vaccine's effectiveness lies in its capacity to offer optimal protection against influenza.

• Flu vaccines act as a shield against the primary strains of flu viruses, though the possibility of contracting flu remains.

• If flu is contracted post-vaccination, the experience is likely to be less severe and of shorter duration.

• Opting for a flu vaccine can potentially curb the transmission of flu to more vulnerable individuals at risk of severe complications.

• The flu vaccine typically takes 10 to 14 days to take effect.

Flu Vaccine's Impact and Mild Side Effects

• Flu vaccines are highly secure. Administration involves injecting adult flu vaccines into the upper arm muscle.

• Minor side effects, such as a slightly elevated temperature, muscle discomfort, and tenderness at the injection site, generally persist for a brief duration, usually a day.

To alleviate any discomfort, consider the following measures:

• Maintain regular arm movement

• Consider pain relief options, like paracetamol or ibuprofen (note that ibuprofen might not be suitable for pregnant individuals unless advised by a doctor).