Let's Beat Flu Together

As we get older, we tend to get a bit more vulnerable to viruses like the flu. Something that we might have shaken off quite easily in our younger days can now land us in hospital and leave us open to really serious illnesses like bronchitis and pneumonia.

That’s why it pays to get your flu jab in the autumn before flu starts to circulate. The jab is free, and it helps to protect against the latest strains of virus.

Book your flu jab today with your GP surgery, as the best time is between September and early November ready for the winter. Don’t wait until there is a flu epidemic!

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Who needs the flu jab?
The flu jab isn’t just for those aged 65 years and over. Many younger people, especially those with the following health problems can also benefit:

• Chronic heart of chest complaint, including asthma
• Chronic kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Lowered immunity due to disease or treatment such as steroid medication or cancer treatment

Are you aged 75 or over?
You can now have the pneumo jab to protect you against the serious forms of pneumococcal infection. You won’t need it each year – for most it’s a one-off vaccination. It is safe to have the pneumo jab at the same time as your flu jab.

What happens if I live in a residential home?
Talk to your nurse or manager about having a flu jab.

What should I do if I care for an elderly or disabled person?
You should ensure they are vaccinated (if recommended) and also seek advice from your GP as to whether you should be vaccinated so that you can continue to look after the person.

Isn’t flu just a heavy cold?
No. Cold are much less severe and usually start gradually with a sore throat and stuffy or runny nose.

If I had the flu jab last year, do I need it again now?
Yes. The viruses that cause flu change every year, which means the flu this winter will be different from last winter’s, and the vaccine will be different as well.

How long will the jab protect me?
The vaccine provides protection for about a year.

Can the flu jab actually cause flu?
No. The vaccine doesn’t contain any live virus, so it can’t cause flu.

Will there be any side effects?
Side effects should be expected. Some people get a slight temperature and aching muscles for a couple of days afterwards and your arm may feel a but sore where you were injected, but that’s about all. Any other reactions are very rare.

How do I go about getting immunised?
If you think you need a flu vaccination, check with your doctor or the practice nurse – or if a nurse visits you regularly, you can ask them. Most doctors organise special vaccination sessions in the autumn.