Introduction to the Flu Season
The flu broke out early this winter, and experts predict it could be a particularly bad season because of a new mutated version of the virus circulating. The NHS has already sent out a “flu jab SOS” urging vulnerable people to get vaccinated for free.
Why is the Flu so Bad this Winter?
The version circulating this winter is H3N2 “Subclass K,” a type of seasonal influenza A virus. Some call it “super flu.” People have hardly been affected by this in recent years, which means that there is less immunity to it in the population. According to NHS England, there were enough flu patients in the first week of December to fill more than three entire hospital groups. On average, 2,660 patients were hospitalized with flu each day – a 55% increase from the previous week.
Who Needs a Flu Shot?
The NHS provides a free flu vaccine to people who need it most, including:
- everyone aged 65 and over
- those with certain long-term health problems
- pregnant women
- nursing home residents
- carers of elderly or disabled people or recipients of care allowance
- people who live with someone who has a weakened immune system
Frontline health and social care workers can also get a flu vaccination through their employer. A nasal spray version of the flu vaccination is also offered for children aged 2 to 3 years and for school children (up to 11th grade).
Should I Buy a Flu Shot?
Even if you’re healthy, you may want to get a flu vaccine this winter. The vaccine is being sold in pharmacies for around £20. To protect yourself in winter, it is best to get vaccinated earlier. The vaccine is intended to provide protection throughout the current flu season. Almost anyone can receive the vaccine, but you should not get vaccinated if you have ever had a severe allergy to the vaccine or any of its ingredients.
Is There a Flu Vaccine Shortage?
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) says there is no national shortage of vaccines for those who need it most – people who can get it free on the NHS. Nearly 17 million vaccines have been delivered this fall – 350,000 more than this time last year. However, if you purchase a flu shot privately, you may need to shop around to find a pharmacy with enough supplies.
How Effective is the Flu Shot and How Long Does it Take for the Vaccine to Work?
The vaccine works against the flu that was common this year and usually takes up to 14 days to become effective. During this time, you are still vulnerable to contracting the virus. Some people mistakenly think they got the flu from the vaccine, but the vaccine doesn’t cause the flu – instead, it gives your body the instructions it needs to fight off an infection if you catch it. There is still a chance you could get the flu after the vaccine, but it will likely be milder and not last as long.
Should I Wear a Face Mask?
The government “will not change its policy” on face masks. The council supports the personal choice but says people with flu-like symptoms should “consider” wearing one. It helps stop the spread of the virus. Some hospitals ask visitors to wear them.
Is it a Cold, a “Super Flu” or Covid? What are the Symptoms and When Should You See a Doctor?
There are many coughs and colds making the rounds. So how do you know if you have the flu and not something else? Your symptoms may provide a clue.
- Colds: Symptoms appear gradually, the nose and throat are most commonly affected, early sign: pressure in the ears, dry cough, mucous cough.
- Flu: comes suddenly, feel erased, fever, muscle aches, fatigue, need bed rest, dry cough.
- Covid: typical flu symptoms, loss of taste or smell, diarrhea or stomach problems.
Most people feel better after one to two weeks of bed rest, but for some the flu can progress to pneumonia. If you think you should seek medical help, first call 111 or go to your GP. However, if you have difficulty breathing or chest pain, call 999 or go to hospital.
When Will Flu Cases Go Down?
It is difficult to predict how long this flu epidemic will last. There is no sign yet that the peak has been reached. People will socialize more in the run-up to Christmas and that gives the virus more opportunities to spread. Vaccinations given now can both provide protection for the vaccinated person and help prevent the spread of the flu to other vulnerable people, such as grandparents.
What Else Can I Do to Protect Myself?
If you’re meeting people indoors, open a window for some fresh air. Maintain good hygiene:
- Cough into your bent elbow or use a tissue and then dispose of it in the nearest trash can
- Wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap
- Clean your surroundings frequently, especially areas that are frequently touched such as door handles
If you feel unwell but need to get out, consider wearing a face mask.
