What is flu?
Influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. It is an infectious and contagious disease that causes seasonal epidemics, usually occurring in autumn and winter. It is different from flu-like illness, which can be caused by many other respiratory viruses such as rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, etc. Although usually mild, flu can be serious in vulnerable people.
What are the typical symptoms of flu?
- Extreme fatigue
- Chills, even when you are not cold
- A dry, painful cough
- Followed by a fever, which can rise above 39°C
- Aches and pains
- Headaches
How long do symptoms last?
The symptoms of flu usually develop 1 to 3 days after becoming infected. Most people will feel better within a week.
However, you may have a lingering cough and still feel very tired for a few more weeks. In any case, if your condition suddenly worsens or does not improve within 72 hours of the first symptoms, you must consult a doctor. Whether you need a face-to-face appointment or a video consultation, you can book directly on MeditSimple.
Book a face-to-face appointment Book a video consultationWho should get a flu jab?
In the UK, the flu jab is recommended for everyone aged 65 and over, all pregnant women, and individuals under 65 with certain long-term health conditions. Other eligible groups include primary and some secondary school-aged children, carers, care home residents, and frontline health and social care workers. The vaccine is also recommended for anyone who lives with a person who is immunocompromised.
How to get the flu jab?
- You will typically be contacted by the NHS to book an appointment if you are eligible.
- If you are not eligible for a free NHS flu jab, you can likely get a private one for a fee at many pharmacies and supermarkets. You can pay for a private flu vaccine if you want to avoid illness and are not eligible for the free version.
Why you might want a private jab
- To protect yourself: Even if you are not in a high-risk group, a flu vaccine can help you avoid getting the illness and the associated discomfort.
- To prevent spreading the flu: Getting vaccinated helps protect others, especially those who are at high risk of serious complications from flu.
To get a private flu jab:
- Visit a pharmacy: Many high street pharmacies, like Boots and Superdrug, offer a private flu vaccination service for those who don’t qualify for the free NHS version.
- Check supermarkets: Some supermarkets also have in-store pharmacies that provide private flu jabs.
- Book online: You may be able to book an appointment through the pharmacy’s website.
Is now a good time to be vaccinated?
The best time to get a flu jab in the UK is in the autumn, specifically between September and November, to ensure protection when flu typically starts circulating widely in December. It takes up to 14 days for the vaccine to become fully effective, so getting it as early as possible in the autumn is ideal, according to GOV.UK. However, it’s still beneficial to get vaccinated even later in the winter if stocks are available.
