Side effects: The influenza vaccine may cause mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site, tiredness, headache, mild fever, muscle aches, or chills. These usually settle within a few days.
Additional precautions: Continue practising good hygiene, including regular handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes. The vaccine takes around two weeks to provide full protection, so it is best given before the flu season begins.
Risks caused by influenza: Influenza can cause serious illness, particularly in older adults, pregnant women, young children, and those with long-term health conditions. Complications can include chest infections, pneumonia, and hospitalisation.