Flu (Influenza) Vaccination Services in Hitchin
Workplace Vaccination Services
We offer flexible workplace vaccination programmes designed to help employers protect the health of their workforce and reduce disruption caused by vaccine-preventable illnesses.
Alongside seasonal flu vaccination, we can provide bespoke occupational vaccination programmes tailored to the needs of your organisation and employees.
Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
Do I need a Flu vaccine?
Whether you need a Influenza (flu) vaccination depends on your health, lifestyle, and risk of exposure, but for many people, it is strongly recommended each year.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
You are especially advised to get vaccinated if you fall into any of these groups:
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Adults aged 65 and over
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Pregnant individuals
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Young children
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People with long-term health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease)
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People with weakened immune systems
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Healthcare or care workers
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Anyone living with someone at higher risk
For these groups, the vaccine helps prevent serious illness and complications.
Should travellers get it?
You may benefit from a flu vaccine if you are:
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Travelling during flu season (this varies by region)
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Visiting crowded places such as airports, events, or public transport hubs
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Going on long-haul trips where exposure risk is higher
Why it’s recommended even if you’re healthy
Even if you are generally healthy:
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Flu can still make you feel very unwell for several days
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You can spread it to others who are more vulnerable
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The vaccine reduces your risk of infection and severity of symptoms
Course
When to get vaccinated
It’s best to receive the vaccine between October and November, before flu season begins
Course
Requires one injection per season - no booster needed
How is it given
Administered via a single injection in the upper arm
How Long Does It Last?
Protection lasts for up to one year, with immunity starting around two weeks after vaccination
Side Effects
Common, mild side effects may include, redness, swelling, or soreness at the injection site
Exclusions
You’ve had a severe allergic reaction to a previous influenza vaccine or its ingredients or you currently have a high fever or acute infection - postpone vaccination until recovery
Common and rare side effects of the Flu Vaccine
Side effects of the Influenza (flu) vaccine are usually mild and short-lived. Serious reactions are rare, and for most people the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks.
Common side effects
These are the most frequently reported and typically last 1–3 days:
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Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
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Mild fever
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Headache
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Fatigue
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Muscle aches
These symptoms are a normal sign that your immune system is responding to the vaccine.
Less common side effects
Some people may experience:
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Slight nausea
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Dizziness
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Mild flu-like symptoms for a short time
Rare but serious side effects
These are uncommon but important to be aware of:
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Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
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Difficulty breathing
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Swelling of the face or throat
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Rapid heartbeat
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Guillain-Barré syndrome (very rare)
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A neurological condition that can cause muscle weakness or paralysis
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Occurs in a very small number of cases
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How effective is the Flu vaccine?
The vaccine significantly reduces the risk of contracting influenza and lowers the chance of serious complications if you do become infected. Because flu viruses change each year, the vaccine is updated annually to target the strains most likely to circulate.
How long does the Flu Vaccine last?
Protection develops about two weeks after vaccination and lasts for up to one year. Annual vaccination is required to stay protected against new strains.
When should I get the Flu vaccine?
The best time is October to November, just before flu season begins. This ensures you’re fully protected when the risk of infection is highest during winter.
Is the Flu vaccine safe during pregnancy?
Yes. It is safe from the second trimester and also helps protect your baby after birth through transferred antibodies.
Can I get flu from the vaccine?
No. The flu vaccine contains inactivated virus fragments that cannot cause flu.
Why do I need the vaccine every year?
Because flu viruses mutate regularly, new vaccines are formulated annually to protect against the most likely circulating strains.
What if I’m ill on the day of my appointment?
If you have a fever or acute infection, your vaccination should be postponed until you recover.
Do antibiotics help with flu?
No. Flu is viral, so antibiotics are not effective. Rest, fluids, and time are the best treatments.
