Private vaccinations
Influenza (flu)
Annual seasonal flu vaccine for adults and children.
About this vaccine
About Influenza (flu)
Seasonal influenza can cause significant illness even in otherwise healthy adults and is particularly dangerous in the very young, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions. The vaccine is updated every year to match the strains most likely to circulate.
For most adults an inactivated intramuscular vaccine is used; a live attenuated nasal spray (Fluenz) is available for eligible children aged 2–17. For adults 65 and over an adjuvanted or high-dose vaccine is preferred to boost immune response.
What it protects against
Protection
Seasonal influenza A and B strains included in that year's formulation.
How it's delivered
Delivery
Intramuscular injection for adults; intranasal spray for eligible children.
Doses
Number of doses required
A single dose each autumn. Children aged 6 months to 8 years being vaccinated for the first time may need two doses at least 4 weeks apart.
Who should have it
Who should consider it
Everyone from 6 months of age can benefit. Particularly important for adults over 65, pregnant women (at any stage of pregnancy), people with chronic heart, lung, kidney, liver or neurological disease, diabetes, immunosuppression, and household contacts of vulnerable people.
Contraindications
Important information
Confirmed anaphylactic reaction to a previous dose or to any component of the vaccine. Egg allergy: most patients with egg allergy can safely receive an ovalbumin-low vaccine — please discuss with your GP. The live nasal spray is not suitable for immunocompromised patients or during pregnancy.
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