Seasonal flu jab
Free flu jab for the vulnerable
Residents at risk of developing complications from seasonal flu can take advantage of a free flu jab.
The vaccine is available to the over 65s, pregnant women, carers, those living in residential or nursing homes, people working in frontline health or social care, and those with long-term health problems.
Individuals who have conditions such as respiratory, neurological, heart, kidney or liver diseases are particularly vulnerable.
Seasonal flu peaks every year, usually between September and February. Flu symptoms include fever, chills, headaches and aching muscles. Flu is caused by viruses and not bacteria so antibiotics don't work.
The most likely viruses that cause flu each year are identified in advance and vaccines are then produced to fight them. Seasonal flu claims around 8,000 lives a year in England and Wales.
More information
For more info, talk to your GP, practice nurse or pharmacist, or visit: www.nhs.uk/flu
Page updated: 17 Nov 2011
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