NHS urges 'protect yourself' in 'serious' illness alert

NHS urges 'protect yourself' in 'serious' illness alert NHS is urging eligible people to get their free vaccine this winter The NHS has issued an alert as it urges people to take up a vaccine to protect themselves from potentially serious illness. At this time of year and deeper into winter, a number of bugs tend to circulate at higher levels than during the summer months. These include common colds, flu, and Covid. In the week to October 11, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says that flu cases remain at typical levels for the time of year, though "emergency department (ED) attendances for influenza-like-illness (ILI)" are "above seasonally expected levels". A recent NHS update on X, formerly Twitter, warns: "Flu can be serious. If you're 65 or over, get your free NHS flu vaccine to help protect against serious illness and hospital treatment. It is important to get the flu vaccine every year. Book via your GP, pharmacy or the NHS App." Flu symptoms and recovery Most people who contract flu will recover within a few days to less than two weeks, though some may develop complications such as pneumonia, which can in certain cases prove fatal. The flu jab offers protection against the virus and is available on the NHS each autumn and winter to those most vulnerable to serious illness. Flu symptoms tend to come on very suddenly and can include a high temperature, a dry cough, headaches, body aches, a sore throat, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and loss of appetite. Symptoms are broadly similar in children, though they may also experience earache, sore eyes, swollen glands and low energy levels. Who can get a flu vaccine via the NHS You can receive the free NHS flu vaccine if you: - are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by March 31, 2027) - are aged 18 to 64 and have certain long-term health conditions - are pregnant - live with someone who has a weakened immune system - are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer's allowance - are experiencing homelessness or staying in a homeless hostel or night shelter - live in a care home Children aged two to three years, school-aged children (Reception to Year 11) and children with certain long-term health conditions are also eligible for the flu vaccine.