Protecting yourself takes only a few minutes, but it can make all the difference to your health and those around you.
A yearly flu vaccination is one of the simplest ways to reduce your chances of getting seriously ill from influenza. It is not only for those with chronic conditions. It is for anyone who wants to stay well through the colder months.
Why is the flu vaccine important?
Influenza is not just a bad cold. It can hit hard, especially if you have other health conditions, live with young children or older adults, or work in close contact with others. Even healthy people can feel completely knocked down by the flu.
Getting the vaccine can:
- Lower your risk of severe illness
- Help prevent missed work or school
- Reduce the spread to vulnerable family members
- Ease pressure on the healthcare system during flu season
One small step can protect many.
Who should get a flu vaccine?
Flu vaccines are recommended for most people aged 6 months and older. You may especially want to consider it if:
- You are over 65
- You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- You have asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or other chronic conditions
- You live with or care for young children or elderly adults
- You work in education, healthcare, or public-facing roles
The timing matters too. Flu season typically begins in late autumn and lasts through winter. The best time to get vaccinated is early in the season, before cases rise.
What can you expect?
The appointment is quick, and the injection takes only a few seconds. Afterwards, you may feel mild symptoms like tenderness at the injection site, a slight fever, or body aches. These usually go away within a day or two.
You will not be given a live virus. The vaccine helps your body build up its defence so that it does not get sick.
