Vaccination against seasonal influenza

14 November 2022

Are we more vulnerable to flu this year?

Typically, different strains of flu circulate each year, but this circulation has not occurred in the same way as it normally would, due to COVID restrictions. This means that flu will likely circulate much more easily this year due to the lack of cases last season. Essentially, we have not had as much of an opportunity to build up some immunity against last year’s strains so these will prove a threat alongside the newer influenza strains. Moreover, there has been an increase in social interactions wherein flu can circulate, with fewer precautions we saw closer to the lifting of restrictions.

It is anticipated that there will be a resurgence in flu, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and norovirus this winter alongside an increase in cases of COVID-19. However, it’s worthwhile remembering that the impacts of flu and these other viruses vary considerably year to year and because of this variability it is not possible to accurately predict what will happen this season.

How can I protect myself?

Vaccination with a flu jab is still the best way to combat flu but it is also worth being cautious with hygiene procedures such as hand washing, avoiding touching your face where possible and keeping distance with others where possible. Likewise, as many will remember from COVID guidance, the circulation of fresh air in meeting spaces can also be helpful in preventing the spread of respiratory illnesses.

What is the government doing to manage an early flu season?

The government has expanded the offer of free flu vaccination to over 33 million people.

Flu jab eligibility:

They are prioritising the most vulnerable individuals first but below is a list of all those who will be eligible for the free flu jab.

• All frontline health or social workers.
• Those aged 50 or older.
  • Those aged 65 and older should be offered a vaccine with an extra ingredient which aims to trigger a greater immune response.
• Those who are in a clinical risk group.
• Those who are pregnant.
• Residents in long-stay residential care (care homes).
• Those who are the main carer for an older individual or disabled person.

There is also a nasal spray form of the vaccine suitable for children which is on offer to:

• Children aged 2-3 years.
• All primary school children.
• Children in secondary school year groups 7, 8 and 9.
• Children in a clinical risk group between the ages of 6 months to 17 years old.

The eligibility criteria is broadly similar for Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, but there may be some variations. Check with your GP or local pharmacy for regional guidance and to book.

Will anybody else be offered a free flu jab?

The government has announced that if there is enough supply of the vaccine, then students in years 10 and 11 will also be offered a dose.

However, everyone who is not eligible for a free vaccination can pay for a private administration of the jab at pharmacies and vaccination centers for around £15. It is however worth noting that officials will be prioritising the supplies to ensure those at greatest risk receive them first.

Is there an optimal time to receive the flu jab?

The earlier the better. Ideally between late September and the end of November due to flu season peaking in January/February time. However, it’s still worthwhile having the jab even if it’s a bit later than this time period.

If you are feeling under the weather, it is also advised to rebook your flu vaccine for another time when you feel better.

If I got flu how bad would it be and how long would it last?

For most people flu lasts around 2 weeks and does not require medical intervention. However, it can be very serious and this risk increases if you are on immunosuppressant medications such as those used in RA/JIA management. Likewise, those who are older or very young are at an increased risk of serious illness from flu.

Therefore, vaccinations are important, they help reduce this risk and make it easier to fight off the virus if contracted.

In terms of how long it will last, this may be increased compared to the general population and it may be advised by your rheumatology team that you temporarily cease your medication to help your body fight off the infection. However, this will depend on how well controlled your RA/JIA is at the time.

There will also be individual differences in the severity, duration and risk of death from the virus, as well as variations due to viral strain and other factors.

Influenza or Coronavirus – which is it?

As with the symptoms of the common cold, the symptoms of flu and COVID overlap including things like; fever, cough, general sense of malaise (feeling unwell and tired), muscle ache, headaches, sore throat, diarrhoea and vomiting.

There is no sure-fire way to know whether it is flu, COVID or another common winter virus that ails you. You should take a COVID test to rule this out as this may require treatment with an anti-viral.

Aside from this, it is important to try to minimise your passing on of whatever virus it is. Likewise, you will be more vulnerable to picking up a second infection such as COVID if you catch the flu, and if this happens your risk of serious illness from one or both viruses is increased, as is the mortality risk.

Flu vaccine side effects

As with any vaccination there is the possibility of side effects. For most these are mild and short-lived, they can include a slightly raised temperature, muscle ache and sore arm/injection site. The government statement on the flu vaccines have noted that allergic reactions are rare but that if you have had a previous poor reaction to a flu vaccine you should avoid having it. We suggest you speak to your GP for guidance specific to your circumstance.