As the nights draw in and we pull on our favourite jumpers to keep warm, it's also time to book in for your annual flu jab.
With lots of socialising typically happening at this time of year, it's more important than ever to protect yourself from catching the flu, especially with COVID still very much a concern for those vulnerable.
How to book your flu jab
To book your appointment, simply book to have it done at your GP surgery or your local pharmacy which provides NHS vaccinations. If you can't get an appointment straight away, ask to be booked in for whenever the new batches are delivered. While you're there, see if you can get your covid booster jab too.
Where can I get a flu jab?
The jab can be administered at your GP surgery or pharmacy.
If you're worried about getting an appointment with your GP to have your flu jab, you can also get it done at your local pharmacy. Simply enquire with your pharmacist to check if you are eligible. Even if you aren't eligible, your pharmacist will be able to assist and advise when it comes to paying for your flu jab too.
Equally, if you'd feel more comfortable getting your flu jab at your GP surgery with your practice nurse or doctor, you should call or drop in to arrange an appointment.
Who is eligible for a flu jab?
Although it might feel as though your arm has had enough vaccines to last a lifetime recently, it's vitally important you book in for your flu jab if you are eligible.
The NHS flu vaccine is free to those who are:
• are 65 and over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2023)
• have certain health conditions (including asthma, heart conditions and diabetes to name a few)
• are pregnant
• are in long-stay residential care
• receive a carer's allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick
• live with someone who is more likely to get a severe infection due to a weakened immune system, such as someone living with HIV, someone who has had a transplant, or is having certain treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• are frontline health workers
• are social care workers who cannot get the vaccine through an occupational health scheme at work
Flu jab side effects
The side effects of the flu jab are very similar to the side effects you might experience from any other vaccination. The main symptoms include:
• a slightly raised temperature
• muscle aches
• sore arm where the needle went in – this is more likely to happen with one of the vaccines for people aged 65 and over
You can ease the aches and pains by trying to move your arm regularly to help your muscles. Taking a painkiller such as paracetamol or ibuprofen is also advised.
Is the flu jab safe?
The flu jab is considered very safe. None of the jabs contain live viruses so they cannot give you flu.
Although it's very rare, allergic reactions can occur. If this does happen to you, it will happen within minutes of having the jab and the person who vaccinates you will be trained in how to treat you immediately.
If you're concerned, it's a good idea to speak with your GP about your worries.
Lorna White is a Senior Digital Writer at Yours.co.uk. She was previously a writer at Yours Magazine writing features and news stories before joining the digital team. Lorna loves the great British countryside and likes to spend her spare time out and about in her home of Nottinghamshire walking her dog, Pippin.