As the temperature begins to cool down and the children have settled into school, it won’t be long until nasty winter illnesses start to resurface, particularly flu. So if you want to avoid getting the serious virus this year, read on to find out everything you need to know about getting vaccinated against it.
What is the flu jab?
The seasonal flu jab is designed to protect people against the influenza virus, which is highly contagious and affects the nose, throat and lungs.
It thrives in cold and dry conditions, which is why it is more common during autumn and winter.
While flu can often be mistaken for a common cold, the symptoms are much worse and can include chills, sweats, fever, aching muscles, fatigue, diarrhoea, sickness, and loss of appetite, as well as a sore throat, cough and runny nose.
The flu vaccine is administered in one dose through an injection in the upper arm. It encourages the body to produce antibodies that will fight the virus if it comes into contact with it.
It typically takes ten to 14 days to begin working, helping to reduce symptoms in the patient if they do contract influenza.
Who is eligible for it?
While having the flu is unpleasant, for most people it is not dangerous. However, there are some people who can become very ill if they get flu, and can even develop pneumonia and heart difficulties.
Those who are over the age of 65, children under five years old, pregnant women, patients with a long-term medical condition, people with a weakened immune system, and healthcare workers are either more vulnerable to the symptoms of flu or more likely to contract it.
That is why they are eligible for the free flu vaccine on the NHS. Those who live in a care home or are the main carer for an older or disabled person can also get the flu vaccine at their pharmacy.
When can you get it?
Some people are already able to get their flu vaccination, including those who are pregnant or are due to have treatment that will weaken their immune system.
However, most people who are eligible will be able to get it from October, giving the best chance of protection as flu will be more widely spread once autumn is here.
As there are so many people who need the flu vaccine, it can take a couple of months for everyone to receive it. However, most people should be given their flu jab by the end of November, so they are protected during the months it circulates the most.
Children under the age of 11 are also given the nasal flu spray at primary school, while toddlers aged two and three years old can receive theirs at their local GP surgery. Some secondary school children are also eligible for the vaccination.
Where to find it?
Those eligible for the flu vaccine can receive theirs at the GP or pharmacies that offer free NHS flu jabs for people over the age of 18. Care homes, maternity services and primary schools also provide sessions where vaccinations will be administered.
Adults who are not eligible for the free vaccination can still protect themselves against flu by booking a private service. These are offered at some pharmacies, but can depend on availability.