With winter upon us, GPs in Cumbria are urging anyone who has not yet had their flu jab to ensure they are vaccinated urgently.

Some people worry about the effects of the jab. So our fact checker gives you the information you need


Flu jab - Myths v Facts

Myth - flu is no longer a serious illness. Fact - Flu is a serious illness that can result in serious complications and sometimes death. The strain that recently hit Australia has killed hundreds of people.

Myth - the flu jab will give me the flu. Fact - the adult vaccine is a dead vaccine that won't make you ill. Some people will have a mild immune reaction, much less severe than the flu.

Myth - the more flu jabs you have, the less effective they are. Fact- The opposite is actually true. The jab has an accumulative effect, so the more times you are vaccinated the more protected you will be.

Myth - children don't need the flu vaccine. Fact - Flu can be a very unpleasant for children, with serious complications including bronchitis and pneumonia. It can also spread easily in young children, so they are offered the nasal spray up to school year four.


Free flu jab - who qualifies?

  • Anyone aged 65 and over.
  • Pregnant women.
  • Children and adults with an underlying health condition (such as long-term heart or respiratory disease).
  • Children and adults with weakened immune systems.
  • Carers and NHS staff.
  • Young children are offered the free nasal spray via their GP surgery or school.

Contact your GP practice or pharmacy to get your free jab.