Flu is unpredictable. It is not possible to predict fully the strains that will circulate each year, and there is always a risk of a change in the virus. However, this does not happen very often. During the last ten years the vaccine has generally been a good match for the circulating strains.
The vaccine still provides the best protection available against an unpredictable virus that can cause severe illness.
The most likely viruses that will cause flu each year are identified in advance of the flu season in the UK and vaccines are then made to match them as closely as possible. The vaccines are given in the autumn ideally before flu starts circulating.
Flu vaccines protect against the main three or four types of flu virus most likely to be circulating.
Don’t put off getting the flu vaccination. If you’re eligible, get it now. It’s free because you need it. The flu vaccine is the best protection we have against unpredictable viruses. It is vital that those eligible have it every year as the vaccine protects against different strains of flu which can change and/or evolve each year.
If you’re at risk of complications from flu, make sure you have your annual flu vaccine, available each year usually from October onwards.
There are two types of flu vaccine:
The flu vaccination is offered free of charge to people who are:
See your GP about the flu jab if you have any of the following problems (however old you are):
If you are pregnant your GP or midwife can also provide the flu jab free of charge. Catching flu in pregnancy can lead to complications that can cause serious illness for mum and baby.
If you were vaccinated last year, you still need to get another this year as the flu viruses change each year. If you fall into one of the groups above then it’s on offer from the NHS because you need it. Most people do get their flu vaccination so don’t miss out on yours.
The NHS flu vaccine is available for eligible adults at your GP surgery or a local pharmacy (Tameside pharmacies / Glossop pharmacies) offering the service. If you are over 65 years contact your GP/Pharmacist to receive a flu vaccine that’s designed to be more effective for your age group.
The best time to have a flu vaccine is in the autumn, from the beginning of October to end of November but remember NHS vaccines are available right through to March 31st. Ask your GP or pharmacist or if pregnant your midwife.
When an infected person coughs or sneezes, they spread the flu virus in tiny droplets of saliva over a wide area. These droplets can then be breathed in by other people or they can be picked up by touching surfaces where the droplets have landed. You can prevent the spread of the virus by covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and you can wash your hands frequently or use hand gels to reduce the risk of picking up the virus.
But the best way to avoid catching and spreading flu is by having the vaccination before the flu season starts.
Keeping warm, both inside and outdoors, over the winter months can help to prevent colds, flu and more serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and depression. You should:
Keep your bedroom window closed on winter nights – breathing cold air can be bad for your health as it increases the risk of chest infections. Get the right help Make sure you’re receiving all the help you are entitled to. Learn how to make your home more energy efficient and take advantage of financial schemes to keep up with energy bills. See Keep Warm, Keep Well for details.
You can also check your heating and cooking appliances are safe and operating properly by contacting a Gas Safe registered engineer.
For more information on how to stay well this winter visit the NHS website.
