Normally, getting a flu vaccine will prevent you from contracting the flu. Even though it doesn’t always offer complete protection, the flu vaccination is still important. Where can I get a walk-in flu jab near me in Bury? Continue reading for more information.

Why should I get a flu jab?

The yearly flu vaccination will provide defense against the influenza viruses that are expected to be widespread this flu season. Adults 65 years of age and older will be able to get high-dose flu vaccines, but not all hospitals will offer them.

Influenza is a respiratory disease that can result in significant complications, especially in young children, elderly individuals, and people with specific medical conditions. The best method to avoid the agony of the flu and its complications is to get an influenza vaccine.

Why should you get vaccinated every year?

Because flu viruses change so quickly, you might not be protected against this year’s viruses by the vaccine you received last year. Every year, new influenza vaccinations are introduced to keep up with the different strains of the flu virus.

Your immune system creates antibodies to defend you against the most prevalent viruses each year when you receive your jab. Another justification for getting an annual flu vaccine is that antibody levels may decrease with time.

Who is eligible for the walk-in flu jab near me in Bury?

Everyone aged 6 months or older should receive annual influenza immunisation. The following individuals are at a high risk of flu complications and should receive vaccinations:

– Pregnant women
– Elderly people
– Young children
– Individuals with weakened immune systems

Your risk of complications from the flu may also increase if you have chronic medical conditions. Examples comprise:

– Asthma
– Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
– Cancer or cancer treatment
– Cystic fibrosis
– Diabetes
– HIV/AIDS
– Kidney or liver disease
– Brain or nervous system conditions
– Heart disease
– Obesity

Anyone who has a chronic health condition ought to get the flu jab. Additionally, flu vaccines should be given to residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities.

How effective is the flu jab in Bury?

The performance of the flu vaccine in preventing the illness can vary. The effectiveness of the flu vaccine is often higher in those under 65. After having a flu vaccination, some elderly persons and people with specific medical conditions may develop reduced immunity.

Even if the vaccine only partially shields you from the flu, it can still reduce the intensity of your sickness. Consequently, it can lower your risk of developing major complications that necessitate hospitalisation.

A flu jab does not offer protection from the COVID-19 virus. However, this season is a crucial time to receive the flu vaccine because both COVID-19 and the flu have identical symptoms. The flu vaccine may lessen symptoms that could be mistaken for COVID-19-related ones. The number of patients required to stay in hospitals could be reduced by preventing the flu and lessening the severity of the virus.

Getting a COVID-19 vaccination at the same time as your flu vaccination may be an option.

When’s the best time to get the flu jab?

In order to be protected as early as possible from the flu, it is best to get the vaccine as soon as flu season begins. But if you miss it in the autumn, don’t panic; provided supplies last, you can still have the jab in the winter.

Who should not get the flu vaccine?

People who are ineligible to get a flu vaccine include:

– Children below 6 months of age.
– Individuals who have severe, life-threatening reactions to any component (besides egg proteins) of the flu vaccine shouldn’t receive it. This includes gelatin, antibiotics, and other substances.
– The influenza vaccination should not be administered again to anyone who had a serious allergic reaction previously. Consequently, they may also be ineligible to get subsequent doses of the vaccine. It’s crucial to consult your doctor about whether immunisation is right for you if you had a severe allergic reaction to an influenza vaccine in the past.

Where can I get a free walk-in flu jab near me?

You can get the NHS flu vaccine at:

– A pharmacy offering the service
– Some maternity services if you’re pregnant
– Your GP surgery

Occasionally, the flu vaccine may be recommended to you during a hospital visit.

You do not need to notify the doctor to update your records if you receive a flu jab at any NHS facility other than your GP office. We’ll take care of this for you. You can ask your GP clinic to add any flu vaccinations you’ve received privately or through an occupational health programme to your NHS record.

Book your appointment with Pimhole Pharmacy today to get your flu jab this season.

 

 

This blog post was written on behalf of Pimhole Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.