Flu Vaccine FAQ
- What is the flu vaccine?
The flu vaccine is an annual vaccination that helps protect against the influenza virus. It is typically updated each year to protect against the most common strains predicted for the upcoming flu season.
- Why should I get the flu vaccine?
Getting vaccinated helps protect you from the flu, which can be a serious illness. It also helps reduce the spread of the flu to others, particularly those who are more vulnerable, such as the elderly, young children, and people with certain health conditions. The flu vaccine may not stop you catching the flu but usually it stops people being hospitalised or dying from flu and this is why we recommend the vaccine each year.
- Who should get the flu vaccine?
We offer the flu vaccine to those who may be at more risk of the complications of flu or come into close contact with someone who may be at more risk. This is why we offer the vaccine to anyone
- Over the age of 50 years old
- Anyone with a chronic long term health condition such as diabetes
- Anyone who has close contact with someone with a long term health condition
- Anyone who works in the health or social care system
- Anyone who stays in a residential care setting
- Anyone who is pregnant
We also offer a nasal spray form of the vaccine to school children. This helps protect the elderly and vulnerable and may reduce time spent off school due to flu.
- When is the best time to get the flu vaccine?
It’s best to get the flu vaccine before flu season begins, typically in the early autumn (September through October). However, getting vaccinated later in the season is still beneficial, as flu viruses can circulate later in the year.
- Can the flu vaccine give me the flu?
No, the flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. The injected vaccine that we offer to adults contains inactivated (killed) viruses or a single protein from the flu virus in the nasal spray vaccine that we offer to children, neither of which can cause flu.
Some people may experience side effects, such as soreness at the injection site or a low-grade fever, but these are not the flu. These reactions mean that your body is developing a good antibody response to the vaccine.
Occasionally someone may have already been exposed to flu when they are vaccinated and develop flu. This is related to being exposed to the virus and not as a result of having the vaccine.
- Are there any side effects from the flu vaccine?
Side effects are generally mild and temporary. Common side effects include:
- Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
- Low-grade fever.
- Muscle aches.
- Headache. Severe reactions are rare, but if you experience difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling after vaccination, seek medical attention immediately.
- How effective is the flu vaccine?
The effectiveness of the flu vaccine can vary each year, depending on how well the vaccine matches the circulating virus strains. However, even if the vaccine is not an exact match to the circulating strain of the virus, the vaccine can still reduce the severity of illness and prevent complications.
- Can I still get the flu if I’ve been vaccinated?
Yes, it is possible to get the flu even if you’ve been vaccinated, especially if the vaccine is not a perfect match for the circulating strains. However, vaccinated individuals are less likely to have severe symptoms or complications.
- What should I do if I miss getting the flu vaccine early in the season?
It’s never too late to get vaccinated. Flu viruses can circulate through the year, so getting vaccinated later in the season can still provide protection.
- Can I get the flu vaccine if I’m pregnant?
Yes, the flu vaccine is safe and recommended for pregnant women. It helps protect both the mother and the baby from flu-related complications.
- Do I need to get the flu vaccine every year?
Yes, it’s important to get a flu vaccine every year because flu viruses change over time, and immunity from the vaccine wanes. Annual vaccination ensures you’re protected against the most current strains.
- Where can I get the flu vaccine?
Call 200 66966 to book your flu vaccine appointment at the primary care centre (PCC). You can also ask your GP about your vaccine.
- Can I get the flu vaccine if I’m sick?
If you have a mild illness, like a cold, you can still get the flu vaccine. If you have a more severe illness, like a fever, it’s best to wait until you’re feeling better to get vaccinated.
If you have any further concerns about the flu vaccine, speak to your GP, or ask the vaccination team on 200 66966
