The NHS recommends flu vaccines for adults 65 and over, people with certain medical conditions, pregnant women, children aged 2-3, primary school children, and frontline health or social care workers. Some employers also offer free flu jabs to their staff.

Yes, flu vaccines are very safe. They've been given to millions of people worldwide for over 50 years. Serious side effects are extremely rare. The vaccine cannot give you flu, as it doesn't contain live viruses.

The best time is from September to March depending on stock availability, before the flu starts circulating. However, you can still get the vaccine later in winter if you missed this period. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop.

Yes, it's recommended to get a flu jab annually. Flu viruses change each year, so the vaccine is updated to match. Your immunity also naturally declines over time, so annual vaccination provides the best protection.

Yes, the flu vaccine is strongly recommended for pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy. It's safe and can protect both the mother and baby. Pregnant women are at higher risk of complications from flu.

Most side effects are mild and short-lived. Common ones include a sore arm at the injection site, slight temperature, and aching muscles for a day or two. Serious allergic reactions are very rare.

No, the flu vaccine cannot give you flu. It contains parts of the virus that are inactivated or no flu virus at all. If you feel unwell after vaccination, it's likely mild vaccine side effects or an unrelated illness.

The effectiveness varies each year, depending on how well the vaccine matches circulating strains. On average, it reduces the risk of flu by 40-60%. Even if you do catch flu after vaccination, symptoms are likely to be milder.

Most people with egg allergies can receive flu vaccines. There are egg-free vaccines available. If you have a severe egg allergy, inform your healthcare provider, who can ensure you receive an appropriate vaccine.

You can still get the flu vaccine later in the season if you miss it early on. While it’s best to get vaccinated before flu season peaks, late vaccination can still provide protection. Flu can circulate into spring, so it’s never too late to protect yourself.

If you experience mild side effects, such as a sore arm or mild fever, rest and drink plenty of fluids. Most side effects resolve within a day or two. See medical attention immediately if you have severe side effects or an allergic reaction.

In most cases, you can get the flu vaccine even if you’re on medication. However, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you’re taking. They can advise you on whether it’s safe to proceed with vaccination.

Protection from the flu vaccine typically lasts for one flu season, which is why annual vaccination is recommended. The vaccine's effectiveness can vary depending on how well it matches the circulating flu strains, but it generally offers protection for about six months.

Yes, even if you're healthy, getting the flu vaccine is important. The flu can cause serious complications, even in healthy individuals. Vaccination protects you and helps prevent the spread of the flu to more vulnerable people in your community.

The flu vaccine is free on the NHS for certain groups, including people aged 65 and over, pregnant women, and those with certain health conditions. If you’re not eligible for a free NHS vaccine, you can pay for it privately at many pharmacies. Prices vary, but it’s generally affordable.

The flu vaccine is typically made using viruses grown in eggs or cell cultures. These viruses are inactivated or weakened before being formulated into the vaccine. The process takes several months, and the vaccine is carefully tested for safety and effectiveness before being distributed for public use.