Michelle Robertsdigital health editor
fake imagesThe flu arrived early this year and experts predict it could be a particularly unpleasant season because a new strain of the virus is circulating.
The H3N2 “subclade K” variant is a mutated strain of the seasonal influenza A virus and people haven’t encountered it much in recent years.
That means there is less immunity against it.
The NHS has already sent out a ‘flu SOS’ to vulnerable people.
So how bad could this winter be? Should you buy a flu vaccine even if you are generally fit and have to pay for it?
Who needs a flu vaccine?
The NHS is offering a free flu vaccine to people who need it most, including:
- anyone 65 years or older
- those who have certain long-term health conditions
- pregnant women
- nursing home residents
- Carers of elderly or disabled people, or those receiving a carer’s allowance
- people who live with someone who has a weakened immune system
Frontline health and social care workers can also get a flu vaccine through their employer.
A nasal spray version of the flu vaccine is also offered to children aged 2 to 3 years, as well as school-aged children (from reception to year 11).
Children can easily get and spread the flu. Vaccinating them also helps protect other people who are at higher risk of getting seriously ill from the flu.
Everyone else has to buy one.
Should I get a flu vaccine?
Even if you’re healthy, you might want to buy a flu shot this winter.
Vaccines still work against the influenza A (H3N2) strain that some call the “superflu.”
High street chemists sell the vaccine for around £20.
It is best to get vaccinated earlier to protect yourself during the winter.
The vaccine should provide protection during the current flu season.
Almost anyone can receive the vaccine, but you should not get vaccinated if you have ever had a serious allergy to the vaccine or any of its ingredients. Talk to your pharmacist if you are not sure.
How long does it take for the vaccine to take effect?
The vaccine usually takes up to 14 days to take effect.
During this period, you are still vulnerable to contracting the virus.
Some people mistakenly think that the vaccine gave them the flu, but the vaccine does not cause it; Instead, it gives the body the instructions it needs to fight an infection if you get one.
There is still a chance that you will get the flu after getting vaccinated, but it will likely be milder and not last as long.
Protection wanes over time, so a vaccine is offered each year.
The vaccine is frequently updated to better match the strain or version of flu that experts expect to be circulating.
Is it a cold, a ‘super flu’ or Covid?
There are a lot of coughs and colds going around. So how do you know if you have the flu and not something else? Your symptoms may give you a clue.
Colds
- Symptoms appear gradually.
- It mainly affects the nose and throat.
- Early sign: pressure in the ears
- Chestier, mucous cough
Flu
- It comes suddenly
- Feeling wiped out
- Fever, muscle pain, exhaustion.
- Needs bed rest
- hacking cough
COVID-19
- Typical flu symptoms
- Loss of taste or smell.
- Diarrhea or upset stomach
What else can I do to protect myself?
If you find yourself with people indoors, open a window to let in fresh air.
Practice good hygiene:
- Cough into your bent elbow or use a tissue, then throw it into the nearest container.
- wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water
- Clean your surroundings frequently, especially frequently touched areas such as door handles.
If you are unwell but must go out, consider wearing a mask to help protect others.
