What should you know about new flu shot?

The vaccine presents the immune system with carefully selected influenza components, allowing it to prepare without causing flu. Protection develops after vaccination and can vary with age, health, and how closely the vaccine matches viruses circulating in the community. An inactivated vaccine cannot reproduce in the body; learn more about the material in Inactivated Vaccine.

You may still catch a respiratory infection after vaccination, because many viruses cause flu-like symptoms. Vaccination is intended to reduce the chance of influenza and may make illness less severe if infection occurs.

Tell the vaccinator about previous vaccine reactions, severe allergies, pregnancy, immune conditions, and medicines that affect immunity. Mention if you are currently unwell. Follow the service's advice about observation after the injection and keep a record of the date and product received.

A sore arm, mild tiredness, headache, or a low fever can occur for a short time. Rest, drink fluids, and use only symptom relief that is suitable for you. The injection cannot give you influenza.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, fainting, or rapidly worsening symptoms after vaccination. These can signal a serious allergic reaction. Contact a clinician for persistent high fever, marked weakness, or symptoms that are worsening rather than settling.

Ask which influenza vaccine is suitable for you, when protection is expected to develop, whether another dose is needed, and what to do if you have a history of a reaction or are unwell on the vaccination day.