For many people, catching the flu is unpleasant and can leave them feeling unwell for a few days. For some people however, it can have more serious consequences and lead to secondary infections including pneumonia.
Although the symptoms can be similar, flu or influenza is different to a heavy cold and shouldn’t be underestimated, particularly if you are over 65 or have certain medical conditions.
Common symptoms include a cough, headache, sore throat, fever, tiredness and muscle aches, making it difficult to differentiate from the common cold or COVID. If you have the flu, you may develop other symptoms including a discomfort in the chest and difficulty breathing. In the worse cases, hospitalisation may be required and it can even lead to death.
The symptoms of a cold are often milder than flu. It’s more common to experience loss of taste and smell with COVID.
The flu virus is contagious and is more common in winter when we are indoors more. The colder months also make it easier for the virus to pass between people because the air is colder and drier. The lower temperature can also slow our immune system so we’re less able to fight off the virus.
Who should get a flu jab?
One of the natural consequences of ageing is that our immune systems weaken. This means it harder to fight off infections and when we do catch a virus like flu, it is more likely to lead to other complications. Flu can lead to pneumonia, which in turn can develop into more severe complications, and can sometimes even be fatal.
If you are over 65, it is recommended you get vaccinated.
There are certain medical conditions including asthma, heart disease and diabetes that can make you more vulnerable to flu too. Even if you are under 65, the NHS recommends you get the flu vaccination if you live with someone who is immunocompromised.
Being in close proximity to other vulnerable people can also put you at more risk, for example if you live in a nursing home, care home or retirement village or if you are a health or social care worker.
Pregnant women and very young children are also more likely to experience worse flu symptoms too. The flu vaccine is also recommended to children aged 2 – 3 years old and primary school children.
These groups benefit the most from getting the flu vaccination. Even if you are fit and healthy, the flu jab can reduce your likelihood of catching flu badly and the chance of passing it on to others. If you are a carer or work with older adults, then you should also consider getting the flu jab.
Why is a flu jab important?
You can be contagious with the flu before you even experience symptoms. It easily spreads from one person to the next through droplets in the air when we speak, cough or sneeze. You don’t even have to be very close to someone to pass the flu on; it can spread from 6ft away. It is also possible to pick up the virus by touching infected surfaces such as worktops and door handles and then touching your face, mouth or eyes.
By getting the flu jab, you are protecting yourself and the people around you.
Who qualifies for a free flu jab vaccination?
Fortunately for us in the UK, the flu vaccination is available for free to many groups of people. Current criteria includes if you are:
- Over 65 years old
- The primary carer for an older or disabled person, or receive carer’s allowance
- Have certain long-term health conditions
- Are pregnant
- Are a care home resident
- Live with someone with a weakened immune system
You can find out more on the NHS website.
If you do not qualify and you are working, check with your employer. Some businesses offer a flu jab or the opportunity to claim the back the cost as a perk and to keep their workforce healthy in winter. You can pay for the flu jab yourself if you do not qualify. Paying privately for the flu jab will cost between £17 - £22 depending on where you live and which pharmacy you choose.
When and where to get the flu jab
The best time to get the vaccination is autumn or early winter because this is before the virus is more common. If you are unable to get the flu jab until later then it is still beneficial, however.
You can also get the vaccination at the same time as other vaccines including COVID-19 and shingles.
If you are eligible then you will normally be contacted by the NHS to book an appointment. You can do this by phone or online here from the 23rd September. If you are not contacted or are pregnant, contact your GP or local pharmacy to arrange an appointment.
Types of flu vaccines available
There are several types of vaccines for flu available in the UK. You will be offered the most suitable vaccine for you depending on your age so don’t worry about which one to choose. If you have any concerns then the health professional administering the vaccine can advise.
Benefits of getting the flu jab for older adults
By getting the flu jab you will:
- Reduce the risk of severe illness
- Reduce the chance of a hospitalisation or the amount of time required in hospital
- Reduce the risk of developing complications from secondary medical conditions including pneumonia
- Protect those around you, including family, carers, health professionals and colleagues
Who should not get the flu jab
Despite the overwhelming benefits of the flu jab, there are some people who should not receive it. If you have any concerns about suitability, your GP or pharmacist will be able to advise.
You should not be vaccinated if you:
- Had a serious allergy to the vaccine in the past or are allergic to its ingredients, including eggs
- Have a weakened immune system. You may be advised to wait until you are better if you have a fever.
- Are a child who is wheezy
Common side effects and what you can expect
For most people, getting the flu jab is straightforward and can be done within a few minutes at the local pharmacy. Some people may experience mild symptoms including soreness where the injection was given, a slight temperature and aching body.
A common myth is that the vaccine contains a live flu virus that gives you the flu – however, this is not true.
It can take up to 14 days for the vaccine to work. It will protect you against the most common flu viruses. You can still catch flu afterwards, but it will probably be milder and the symptoms should not last as long.
It’s important to get vaccinated every year against the flu because protection decreases over time and different types of flu viruses can be more common in different years.
More winter health tips
It’s a good idea to pay closer attention to your health in the colder months because your immune system may be naturally weaker. Simple steps like washing your hands thoroughly can prevent viruses from spreading. Resting and sleeping can help your immune system fight illnesses. Good nutrition with healthy snacks for the elderly also plays a part and don’t neglect your mental health in winter either.
It’s important to stay warm this winter and if you have a condition like arthritis, arthritic pain in winter can be worse. If you are a family carer for an elderly loved one, there some home safety tips for older adults you should consider, including have a personal alarm or fall alarm.
