Why is the Flu Vaccine Important this Year?
Influenza vaccines, sometimes referred to as flu injections or flu jabs, are immunisations that guard against contracting influenza viruses. As the influenza virus evolves quickly, new vaccine versions are created twice a year. Keep reading to learn more about the flu vaccine in Essex.
When should the flu vaccine be given?
The optimum time to get the flu vaccination is in the autumn or the first few days of winter, before the virus starts to spread more. Nevertheless, you can still get vaccinated at a later date. This is the only way to guarantee that you have immunity to the virus for some time.
Who can get the flu vaccine in 2022?
The NHS provides flu vaccinations to people who:
– Are above the age of 65.
– Have particular health issues.
– Are pregnant.
– Are in long-stay residential care.
– Receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for a disabled or older person who may be at risk if you become sick.
– Live with someone who is more likely to contract a severe infection because of a compromised immune system, like someone who has HIV, someone who is having some treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis or who has had a transplant.
– Are frontline health workers.
– Are social care workers who can’t get the vaccine through an occupational health scheme at work.
From mid-October, those 50 and older can receive a free NHS flu jab. Read more here.
Who shouldn’t go for the vaccination?
A large percentage of adults can get vaccinated, but if you’ve ever encountered a serious adverse reaction to one, you shouldn’t. If you have an egg allergy, the flu vaccine may trigger a negative reaction. Several flu vaccines are produced using eggs.
If you would like to have an egg-free or low-egg vaccine, consult with your pharmacist first. You should wait to get the flu vaccine until you feel better if you are otherwise sick or have a fever.
How much does a flu vaccine in Essex cost?
Set up an appointment with your GP or a pharmacy that offers the flu vaccination through the NHS if you are eligible for a free one. The price of a private flu vaccine varies. Get in touch with us to find out more about the cost.
Additionally, you might get an invitation to get immunised, but you are not forced to wait until you do to schedule an appointment. Everyone who meets the requirements will be eligible for the free vaccination.
Why is the flu vaccine given?
The flu vaccine is designed each year to provide the strongest defence against the flu viruses that are prevalent throughout the winter months. The flu virus is also continually evolving, therefore the vaccination is frequently updated to provide the best protection.
Where can I get the vaccine?
The NHS flu vaccine is usually available at:
– Your GP surgery
– Hospital appointment
– Your midwifery service if you’re pregnant
– A pharmacy offering the service
How effective is the flu vaccine?
Although the primary influenza virus strains are combated by flu vaccines, getting sick is still a risk. In the unlikely event that you do get the flu after getting a vaccination, it will likely be mild and pass quickly.
The influenza vaccine will reduce your risk of spreading the illness to people who could be more susceptible to serious complications.
It takes the flu vaccination between 10 and 14 days to take effect.
Can students receive the flu vaccine?
Yes. This year, it’s extremely crucial for students to get vaccinated against the flu, and they should also receive a COVID-19 vaccine or booster dosage as well.
There have been flu epidemics on college and university campuses. The flu virus is known to spread swiftly among teenagers, college and university students. Flu transmission is facilitated by common living quarters, crowded classrooms, and group social activities.
Make sure your teen or college-aged child gets their flu vaccination as soon as possible if you are their parent. You should also ensure that you get one if you are a student.
What are the side effects of the flu vaccine?
The flu jab works very well. However, like any other vaccine, it has some side effects. The majority of adverse effects are minor and generally persist for one or two days. These consist of:
– Muscle pain
– Discomfort at the injection site
Is the vaccine worth having?
The way to protect against the flu is to have a yearly flu vaccination. Even in situations where the vaccine does not entirely protect against infection, it can lessen the length and severity of the illness and help avoid major complications, such as hospitalisation and even death.
Get in touch with G.M. Graham Pharmacies today to get your flu vaccine in Essex.
This post was written on behalf of G.M. Graham Pharmacies by Pharmacy Mentor
