What is flu?

Flu is short for Influenza, which is an illness that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It’s caused by common viruses and is spread by sneezing and coughing. These viruses are contagious and become more widespread in autumn and winter when people are indoors more often. This allows viruses to pass more easily between people.

Often flu comes on suddenly, and can make you feel too ill to carry on as normal.

What are the symptoms?

• High temperature / fever
• Chills or shivering
• Headache
• Muscle aches and joint pain
• Sore throat
• Dry, persistent cough
• Runny or blocked nose
• Feeling extremely tired or weak
• Loss of appetite

How to get a vaccine

The NHS offers a free flu vaccine to people who need it most, including: anyone aged 65 or over, those with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women, care home residents, carers for older or disabled people, those who receive a carer’s allowance, people who live with someone who has a weakened immune system, and frontline health and care workers. Children can also get a nasal spray vaccine from aged two. Everyone else can buy a flu shot.

How the jab works

The flu vaccine introduces an inactive version of the virus to the body which teaches it how to fight the real thing. It cannot give you flu. Your immune response may make you feel a bit rough for a day or two and it takes about 14 days to be effective. You might still catch flu after getting vaccinated, but it’s likely to be much milder. Roughly 0.0001% of people might have an allergic reaction to the flu vaccine.

What else can I do?

If you’re meeting people indoors, open a window for fresh air. Practise good hygiene: cough into your bent elbow, or use a tissue and dispose of it afterwards in the nearest bin wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap clean your surroundings often, especially areas that are touched frequently such as door handles If you are unwell but must go out, consider wearing a face mask to help protect others.

Keeping healthy and informed this winter

Winter is a challenging time for health services, particularly over long bank holiday periods. By planning ahead, checking opening times, and using local pharmacies for minor conditions, you stay well while keeping urgent and emergency services free for those who need them most.