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 Influenza can affect anyone, no matter how fit, healthy and active you may be.
Influenza is not just a “bad cold”, although the symptoms may be similar, influenza is much more severe. It can lead to serious illnesses, especially in the elderly or people who have a known medical condition.
Symptoms of influenza include:
- cough
- headache
- fever or chills
- body aches and pains
- fatigue
- generally feeling miserable.
Complications can include pneumonia and heart failure. In some cases influenza can be life threatening. The best and most effective protection is provided by InFLUenza immunisation.
Who is eligible for a FREE influenza immunisation?
The inFLUenza vaccination is available free of charge from your family doctors surgery if you are over 65 years or under 65 years with an eligible medical condition.
If you are not eligible for a free Influenza immunisation you can still visit your general practice surgery and pay for a vaccine. Some employers offer a free vaccination for their employees with visiting off-site vaccinating service.
InFLUenza vaccination is the best prevention
Studies amongst older adults have shown inFLUenza vaccination reduces the number of pneumonia cases by 53%, hospitalisation due to respiratory illnesses by 5% and total deaths during the inFLUenza season by 68%. These benefits have also been shown in others with certain ongoing medical conditions.
Can you get inFLUenza from the vaccine?
No, you cannot get Influenza from the vaccine. It cannot cause inFLUenza, as the vaccine does not contain any live viruses. When vaccinated, the body responds to the vaccine by producing an immune response, this can include symptoms such as fever, malaise and body aches.
When is the best time to have the InFLUenza immunisation?
Immunise as soon as possible after the vaccine becomes available in March, because it takes up to two weeks to build your immunity after you receive the vaccination. The vaccine is free to the eligible groups until the end of June.
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