Why am I being offered a flu vaccination?
The flu vaccine helps protect you against influenza (flu), a virus that can cause serious illness, particularly in older adults, pregnant women, young children and people with long-term health conditions. Flu can lead to complications such as chest infections, pneumonia and hospital admission. Vaccination is the safest and most effective way to reduce your risk of becoming seriously unwell from flu.
Why is it important to have the vaccine?
Having the flu vaccine can:
- Reduce your chance of catching flu.
- Reduce the severity of illness if you do get flu.
- Lower your risk of serious complications, hospital admission and death from flu.
- Help protect vulnerable people around you, including family members, friends and those with weakened immune systems.
Flu viruses change every year, the vaccine is updated annually to protect against the strains most likely to circulate each winter.
What does the vaccine do in my body?
The flu vaccine used for adults is an inactivated vaccine, which means it does not contain any live flu virus and cannot give you flu.
After vaccination:
- Your immune system recognises the vaccine as something it needs to respond to.
- Your body produces protective antibodies.
- These antibodies help your immune system recognise and fight flu viruses if you are exposed to them in the future.
It usually takes around 10 to 14 days for your body to develop protection after vaccination.
Where will the vaccine be given?
The flu vaccine is usually given as an injection into the upper arm (deltoid muscle). The procedure takes only a few moments and is performed by a trained healthcare professional.
What side effects might I experience?
Most people have no significant side effects and any symptoms are usually mild and short-lived.
Common side effects may include:
- Soreness, redness or swelling where the injection was given.
- Mild headache.
- Tiredness.
- Aching muscles.
- A mild temperature (fever)
These symptoms usually settle within a few days. Serious allergic reactions are very rare. Healthcare staff are trained to recognise and manage allergic reactions, and appropriate emergency equipment is available
Before you consent
It is important that you have the opportunity to make an informed decision about vaccination. You should feel comfortable asking questions and discussing any concerns before receiving the vaccine. Consent is voluntary, and you can decide whether or not to proceed.
Questions?
If you would like more information, have concerns about the vaccine, or wish to discuss your medical history, allergies, pregnancy status, or previous reactions to vaccines, please speak to the nurse before your vaccination appointment. We will be happy to answer any questions and help you make an informed decision.
Information to tell the healthcare professional
Please let the healthcare professional administering the vaccination if you:
- Have previously had a serious allergic reaction to a flu vaccine or any of its ingredients
- Are currently feeling unwell with a high temperature
- Have any questions or concerns that you would like to discuss before deciding to be vaccinated