The importance of getting vaccinated
Vaccination against seasonal influenza is quick and painless, and if you’re over 50 years of age, are pregnant, suffer from certain health conditions or work in the care sector, you can receive the jab for free.
In particular, those suffering from respiratory or neurological conditions, heart problems, diabetes, liver or kidney disease, or have a compromised immune system are eligible for a free flu vaccine, as they are at high risk from severe illness or complications if they contract the virus.
Even if you don’t fall into one of the above categories, protecting yourself from seasonal influenza by paying a small fee for the annual jab is one of the best decisions you could make for your health this wintertime.
Keep viruses at bay
Because many of us have been taking more care to wash our hands and maintain social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic, fewer of us have been exposed to other common viruses that circulate each year.
This means that if we did end up catching the flu this winter, our immune systems could be hit harder, culminating in worse symptoms, including aching joints and muscles, a sore throat, headaches, fever, a runny nose and a cough.
Therefore, getting the flu jab will help to prime our immune systems into action if we did come into contact with influenza.
Even better, by getting the flu jab, it means you can protect yourself as much as possible, should you become exposed to both the influenza virus and COVID-19 at the same time.
Safe and effective
The flu vaccination has been in use for over 60 years and has been rigorously tested for safety and effectiveness, for use in both children and adults.
The virus targets the most common strains of the influenza virus that are currently in circulation. The vaccine is, therefore, updated every year, meaning an annual jab is required for optimum protection.
Booking your annual flu vaccination at VSM Pharmacy couldn’t be easier, so make your booking today to protect your health and that of your loved ones this winter.