Eligible Brits at the moment are capable of get their free flu vaccine by means of the NHS, however some might not be capable to have their jab
The NHS has formally launched its flu vaccine programme, with all eligible individuals now capable of guide their free jabs. Nevertheless, there are two teams of people that might have to train warning or keep away from the jab altogether.
Official pointers recommend that anybody feeling unwell or working a excessive temperature ought to postpone getting the vaccine till they’re again in good well being. The jab can briefly impression your immune system, and if you’re already battling an sickness, your physique would possibly battle to reply successfully if you happen to get the jab whereas reasonably or severely ailing.
It may additionally make it tougher to differentiate between negative effects from the vaccine and signs of your sickness. The NHS flu jabs can be found till March 31, 2026, and whereas getting it sooner can defend you through the peak of flu season, it is perhaps greatest to delay your jab till you feel higher. Extra data is offered on the NHS web site.
The second group of people that is perhaps suggested towards the flu jab are those that have had allergic reactions to earlier flu vaccines or elements within the vaccine. The official steering notes: “Most people who find themselves eligible for the flu vaccine can have it.
“You solely can not have the vaccine if you happen to’ve had a critical allergic response to a earlier dose of the vaccine or an ingredient within the vaccine. A number of the flu vaccines used within the UK comprise egg protein. Inform the particular person vaccinating you if in case you have an egg allergy.”
A number of completely different flu jabs are given throughout the UK, with the age group figuring out which sort you obtain. The elements for every vaccine will be discovered on-line.
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People who find themselves eligible for the free flu vaccine:
- Aged 65 or over by 31 March 2026
- Have sure long-term well being circumstances
- Pregnant ladies
- Residing in a care dwelling
- Major carers for older or disabled individuals or these recieving carer’s allowance
- Residing with somebody who has a weakened immune system
Free jabs will be booked through phone or on-line by means of the NHS. Sure pharmacies may additionally present walk-in slots from October 1 onwards.
You too can organize a flu vaccination by calling your GP apply or utilizing the NHS App if you happen to’re 18 or older. Your physician can confirm whether or not your medical circumstances qualify you for the jab if you happen to’re unsure.
The vaccination might set off some negative effects, although these ought to stay minor and disappear inside one to 2 days. These can embody tenderness on the injection web site, common aches all through the physique and a slight temperature improve.
The flu jab usually requires as much as 14 days to turn into efficient, and there stays a chance of contracting flu even after vaccination, although this is able to possible be a much less extreme type of the sickness and will velocity up restoration.
The NHS defined: “Safety from the flu vaccine goes down with time and the forms of flu virus the vaccine protects towards are up to date annually. That is why it is essential to get the flu vaccine yearly.”
