Get the jab done
It’s that time of year again! I don’t mean the clocks going back, trick or treat or the fact that the shops are already stacking their shelves with Christmas paraphernalia. It’s the time of year for seasonal flu, so-called because it can appear in the UK in the autumn/winter season from as early as October and last through until March.
Although the symptoms of flu (or influenza) are similar to a common cold they are typically more intense. Coming on suddenly, they generally cause most people to have a high temperature and feel feverish. Anyone who has had the flu will know it is a serious illness and surely would want to prevent getting it again.
You can improve your chances of not getting the flu by having the flu vaccine. It’s that simple! If you work in the health and social care sector you will be working with people who are in vulnerable categories should they get the flu. But you knew that, right?
Advice not to be sneezed at
By having the flu jab you can help protect yourself, family, friends and loved ones - as well as the people you support. So, if you work in the health and care sector, check with your employer whether you are eligible for a free vaccination at you local GP practice or pharmacy.
OK, so it’s not a 100% guarantee against getting infected but there is strong evidence that the flu vaccine will help prevent you from getting the flu. And if you do, it is likely to be milder and last less long.
The Department of Health and Social Care and Public Health England run a campaign every year to encourage people at risk to take advantage of the offer of a free flu jab. Look out for the flu vaccination campaign resources and materials and encourage your NHS and social care colleagues to have the jab. I’ve had mine!