Flu season has come early - should you buy a vaccine this year?
Summary
Flu season has started earlier than usual with a particularly tough strain called H3N2. The NHS is urging vulnerable groups to get vaccinated. While vaccines are provided free to certain groups, others can buy them to protect themselves.Key Facts
- A new strain of flu called H3N2 is circulating, which experts believe may cause a severe flu season.
- The NHS offers a free flu vaccine to people aged 65 or over, pregnant women, those with certain health conditions, care home residents, carers, and health and social care workers.
- A nasal spray flu vaccine is available for children aged 2 to 3 years and school-aged children.
- Flu vaccines are available for purchase at high street chemists for about £20.
- It takes about 14 days for the flu vaccine to start working.
- Getting the flu vaccine does not cause flu; it prepares the body to fight the virus.
- Each year the flu vaccine is updated to match the expected strains.
- Practicing good hygiene and possibly wearing a face mask can help reduce the spread of flu.
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