Flu Jab Season

Influenza, commonly known as flu is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system i.e. the nose, throat and the lungs. It is highly contagious, meaning it can spread easily from person to person. It can rapidly transmit in crowded areas including schools and nursing homes.

Symptoms usually start with a cough or a sneeze, resulting in the spread of tiny droplets containing the virus which can be breathed in by others, or it can land on surfaces that are touched. Even people with mild or no symptoms can infect others.

Symptoms can develop quite quickly and the following could be experienced:

• Sore throat
• Dry or chesty cough
• Muscle aches
• Sudden fever – temperature of 38°C or above
• Feeling tired/exhausted or have difficulty sleeping
• Headache, diarrhoea or tummy pain
• Have a loss of appetite, feel sick
• Children can also get pain in the ears and will appear less active

If you fall into any of the categories below, you may be eligible* for a FREE NHS flu jab:

• You’re over 65 
• You are in one of the following ‘risk categories’: 
  • You're pregnant
  • You have asthma or a lung condition
  • You have chronic heart disease
  • You have diabetes
  • You have a chronic kidney or liver condition
  • You've had a stroke
  • You have an illness or are taking medicines that affect your immune system

* Eligibility will be confirmed following consultation with a healthcare professional. 

** Subject to availability