The seasonal flu vaccine protects against the 3 strains of flu virus circulating this season from September until April.
The virus changes and this is why a new vaccine has to be given each year.
The flu vaccine does not contain any live virus therefore it cannot give you the flu.
How it Works?
The flu vaccine helps your immune system to produce antibodies to the influenza virus. If you have been vaccinated and you come into contact with the virus, these antibodies will attack it and stop you from getting sick.
The flu vaccine starts to work within two weeks.
Who Should Have the Seasonal Flu Vaccine?
The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone and strongly recommended if you:
- are 65 years of age and over
- are pregnant (can be given at any stage during pregnancy)
- have a long-term health condition; (asthma, diabetes, heart disease)
- work in healthcare
- are a carer
- live in a nursing home or other long-term care facility
- in regular contact with pigs, poultry or water fowl
Who Should NOT have the Flu Vaccine?
- You should not have the vaccine if you have had a severe allergic (anaphylaxis) reaction to a previous flu vaccine.
- If you have a fever greater than 37.5°C.
More information is available from www.hse.ie or visit www.immunisation.ie
