8 key things to know about flu vaccination in 2022

How many people receive the flu vaccine in the UK?

Almost everyone.

If you're not among them there are 8 key things you need to know about flu vaccination in 2022 and take your first shot this season.

1. What is the flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine is safe and effective. It's offered every year to help protect people at risk of getting seriously ill from influenza.

2. Who needs the flu vaccine?

Once it gets cold everyone is at risk of catching the flu. The flu vaccine is given free on the NHS to people who are 50 and over, have certain health conditions, are pregnant, frontline health workers and more. However, an average person would have to buy their flu vaccination in a pharmacy.

Everyone needs the flu vaccine, but you should avoid it if you have had a serious allergic reaction to a flu vaccine in the past. Consult a GP to ask about your allergies.

3. When should you get the flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine starts distribution in autumn or early winter before the flu starts spreading. But you can get the vaccine later. It can work within 2 weeks after the dose.

4. What percentage of the population get the flu vaccine?

According to flu vaccination statistics the UK, about how many flu vaccines are given each year, the uptake is currently more than 80%. If you suffer from flu every season makes sure to take your vaccine.

5. Flu vaccination in pregnancy

The flu vaccine is safe at any stage of the pregnancy, you should be vaccinated for flu to keep yourself and the baby safe.

6. Flu vaccination for kids

The influenza virus can be an unpleasant illness for children. It can also lead to serious health issues, such as pneumonia. Children are likely to catch and spread the flu. Vaccinating them protects your kids and your home from being vulnerable to the virus.

7. Flu vaccination and Covid

Less people were able to build natural immunity since the pandemic began. It's easier to catch the flu now. If you get flu and COVID-19 at the same time, you can get seriously ill. It has become extremely important to get the flu vaccine in 2022.