Influenza ("Flu")

Whilst we often use the word flu freely, not every cough, cold, or respiratory illness is true flu. Influenza (“flu”) is a viral illness caused by influenza viruses, which infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Symptoms are usually more sudden and severe than a common cold, with fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, sore throat, and tiredness.

Flu viruses come in different strains, and these strains change over time as new ones evolve.

This is why the flu vaccine is updated each year and why annual vaccination is recommended.

You can check who the NHS will provide a vaccine for here: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/flu-vaccine/

You can still get a flu vaccine from us privately whether or not you are elligible for it free on the NHS.

The nasal flu vaccine is routinely offered by the NHS for children. It is not usually available privately, but sometimes surplus supplies from the NHS campaign become accessible for private use. Please contact us later in the flu season if you would like to check if any has been made available to us.

The flu virus changes each year, so annual vaccination is recommended. Protection from the vaccine also wanes after around 6 months, meaning last year’s dose may not protect you through the following winter. For the best protection, it’s advised to have your vaccine in the autumn, so immunity is strongest during the peak flu season.

Almost all adults and children can benefit from the flu vaccine. It is particularly recommended for older adults, young children, pregnant women, and people with long-term health conditions.

What are the differences between TIVc and aTIV flu vaccines?

• TIVc is suitable for people from 6 months of age and provides effective protection against the flu strains expected to circulate this winter.
• aTIV is an enhanced vaccine designed to produce a stronger immune response in older adults.

The 2026/27 flu vaccine season has experienced unusual supply pressures. Changes to the flu strains included in this year’s vaccine were confirmed relatively late, which has delayed the production and availability of some vaccines.

The standard TIVe vaccine, which is commonly used in the private market and is generally the most cost-effective option, would normally be the vaccine we offer. However, supplies have been significantly delayed this season.

Supemtek (TIVr) is not available at all following manufacturing problems, putting added pressure on TIVc and aTIV supply.