The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has recently reported a rise in flu cases that are putting more people in hospital, which means flu is circulating at a higher rate than this time last year.
People with flu will often get better on its own, but it can make some seriously ill. It’s important to get the flu vaccine if you’re eligible and helps stop it from spreading to others.
Check symptoms of flu (opens in new window)
Published on 16 December 2024
Avoid the 'festive' flu
Flu can easily pass on to other people and may be dangerous for vulnerable people.
Flu is spread by germs from coughs and sneezes, which can live up to 24 hours on hands and surfaces. You’re more likely to give it to others in the first five days.
To reduce the risk of spreading flu:
- Wash your hands often with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze (or into the bend of your elbow if you don’t have a tissue)
- Bin used tissues as quickly as possible
- Try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people if you have a high temperature or don’t feel well enough to do normal activities
The best way to reduce the severity of symptoms and reduce the risk of spreading flu to others is by getting a flu vaccine.
How to get a flu vaccine - adults
Flu vaccines are safe and effective. They’re offered on the NHS every year in autumn until early winter to help protect people most at risk of getting seriously ill from flu.
Most people can get their vaccine through their GP or local pharmacy, and many offer walk-ins as well as appointments.
We also offer flu and COVID-19 vaccines to our staff to make sure they’re keeping themselves, the people they care for safe and reduce the possibility of transmission.
Find out if you're eligible for a free flu vaccine on the NHS (opens in new window)
How to get a flu vaccine - children
Flu vaccines are also offered to children aged 2 to 3 years, school-aged children, and children with certain long-term health conditions.
Read more about the children’s flu vaccine (opens in new window)
Facts about flu
- Flu vaccines cannot give you flu because the injected flu vaccines in the UK do not contain live flu viruses.
- It’s important to get vaccinated early as it can take up to 14 days to be effective.
- If you think you’ve had flu already, it’s still beneficial to get the vaccine. There’s normally more than one type of flu virus, which means the vaccine, that is updated each year, will still help protect you.
- Get vaccinated even if you think you’re healthy as some people are more susceptible to the effects of flu.
How to manage flu at home
- Rest and sleep
- Keep warm
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to treat aches, pains and lower your temperature
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
A pharmacist can give treatment advice and recommend flu remedies.
Find out more
Find a pharmacy (opens in new window)
Read more about flu on the NHS website (opens in new window)
See if you’re eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine (opens in new window)
Stopping the spread of norovirus (opens in new window)