Seasonal vaccine
Flu Vaccine
The flu vaccine protects against seasonal influenza, which can cause serious illness. It is offered free each autumn to people at higher risk, and is updated yearly to match circulating strains.
What it protects against
It protects against influenza (flu) — a viral infection that can be severe, especially in older people, young children, pregnant women and those with long-term conditions.
Who it's for
In the UK it is offered free each year to groups including older adults, young children, pregnant women, people with certain health conditions, carers and health workers.
How it works
The vaccine prompts the immune system to recognise flu viruses so it can respond quickly if you are exposed. Because flu strains change, it is given yearly and reformulated to match the expected strains.
Safety
Safety and side effects
Flu vaccines have a strong safety record. Side effects are usually mild — a sore arm, mild aches or a slight temperature for a day or two. You cannot catch flu from the injected vaccine.
Education and reference only. This is general information, not a personal recommendation, and does not list doses — follow the current NHS schedule and your clinician's advice. Seek urgent help for signs of a serious allergic reaction after any vaccine.
Answers
Flu Vaccine: frequently asked questions
Can the flu jab give me flu?
No. The injected flu vaccine does not contain live virus, so it cannot give you flu. You may get a sore arm or mild aches as your immune system responds.
Why do I need a flu vaccine every year?
Flu viruses change over time and protection fades, so the vaccine is updated and given each year to match the strains expected that season.
Related
Other seasonal vaccines
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Vaccinations
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) — the Green Book
- WHO — immunization
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