What are the Side Effects of the Flu Jab?

The annual flu vaccine is one of the most safe and effective vaccines that protects people at risk of becoming seriously ill from the flu. Whilst many people may experience a flu that they can treat at home, the flu can lead to serious illness or even hospitalisation. The best time to have the flu vaccine is usually in the autumn or the early winter before flu season is in full swing and spreading at its height. Pearl Chemist Group in Earlsfield offers a convenient and quick flu vaccine at our vaccine clinic.

Is the Flu Vaccine safe?
The flu vaccine is one of the safest and most reliable vaccines that are given today. Allergic reactions to the flu vaccine are very rare, but if they do happen, they usually happen within minutes. If a rare reaction does happen to you, the person giving the vaccine will have training on how to treat allergic reactions. Other than a very rare allergic reaction, other side effects are mild, can be treated with over the counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen and should not last longer than a day or so. These include:

  • Fever
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Soreness and/or redness (where jab went in)
  • Muscle aches

Why should I have the flu vaccine?
There are many excellent reasons for you to schedule your flu jab.  

  • Being vaccinated decreases likelihood you will be hospitalised for flu
  • If you get flu and the Covid-19 vaccine at the same time, you will have protection against both serious forms of the illnesses
  • Provides protection not just for you, but those around you
  • Protects you from serious forms if you have pre-existing conditions, are pregnant, or are vulnerable in any way.

The flu can be unpredictable. The flu vaccine is your best bet against this virus and your best way to avoid severe illness from it. The only reason to not have the vaccine is if you are known to be allergic to it or any of the ingredients in it. Additionally, if you have an allergy to eggs or a weakened immune system you should check with your GP before taking the flu vaccine. You should visit us online to book in for your flu vaccination at our clinic in Earlsfield. Learn more about the flu vaccine from our website.  www.pearlchemistgroup.co.uk