What you need to know about flu vaccine in England?
MINOR ILLNESS
This article will guide you through the ways which you can be eligible for a free NHS flu jab, information on the flu vaccination and its effectiveness, as well as types of flu jabs offered.
With flu season quickly approaching, it is important to understand the flu vaccine and its importance. In England, the flu vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of six months who is at risk of developing complications from the flu.
Who is eligible for the flu vaccine?
In England, the flu vaccine is available free of charge to those who are most at risk of developing complications from the flu. This includes:
People aged 50 and over
Pregnant women
Children aged 2-11 years old
People with certain medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
Healthcare workers
Carers
When is the best time to get vaccinated?
The flu vaccine is typically available from September onwards, and it is recommended to get vaccinated as soon as possible. It takes about two weeks for the vaccine to be effective, so it is important to get vaccinated before the flu season begins.
What types of flu vaccines are available?
There are several types of flu vaccines available in England, including:
The standard flu vaccine, which is given to adults and children aged 6 months and over.
The nasal spray vaccine, which is given to children aged 2-11 years old.
The adjuvanted flu vaccine, which is given to people aged 65 and over.
The cell-based flu vaccine, which is given to people aged 18 and over.
Your healthcare provider can help you determine which vaccine is best for you.
Are there any side effects of the flu vaccine?
Like any vaccine, the flu vaccine can cause side effects, but they are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days. Side effects may include:
Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
Headache
Muscle aches
Fever
Nausea
Serious side effects from the flu vaccine are very rare.
Can you still get the flu after getting vaccinated?
The flu vaccine is not 100% effective, but it can significantly reduce your chances of getting the flu. Even if you do get the flu after getting vaccinated, the symptoms are likely to be milder than if you had not been vaccinated.