Should I have a Flu Vaccination?

Flu is a viral illness which affects the chest and upper respiratory system. Symptoms include: Fever , chills, headache, cough, tiredness, loss of appetite, sore throat, blocked nose, and muscle and joint pain .

How do you catch flu?

When someone with flu coughs and sneezes they produce respiratory droplets which can contaminate surfaces. When you breathe in these droplets or touch  contaminated surfaces, you are likely to get flu.The flu virus can survive for up to 24 hours on hard surfaces.

Reduce your risk of catching flu by:

•  Avoiding crowded places and close contact with anyone with flu symptoms e.g. buses 
•  Dispose of dirty tissues.
•  Cover your mouth/nose with a clean tissue when you cough or sneeze.
•  Frequent hand washing or use alcohol hand gel.
•  Face masks are not generally recommended.

Who should  have a Flu vaccine?

The aim of the flu vaccine  is to protect anyone likely to get seriously ill or die if they catch flu.
Certain people may receive the flu vaccine free on the NHS. They include people with:

• Chronic respiratory disease- including asthma
• Chronic heart disease
• Chronic renal disease
• Chronic liver disease
• Chronic neurological disease
• Immunosuppression

Who can't have the vaccine?

Flu vaccine should not be given to anyone with:

• a severe, life threatening reaction to a previous flu vaccine (or any of the vaccine’s ingredients)
• allergy to hen’s eggs.
• current illness with fever

How effective is the flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine gives up to 80% protection against flu. Following vaccination protection usually takes 10 to 14 days to develop.

Are there any side effects?

Most common: sore or swollen arm
Less common: fever, headaches, muscle aches
Rare: fits, nerve pain, anaphylatic reaction.