Prevention of influenza

Influenza viruses spread mainly through respiratory particles and contaminated hands or surfaces. People may pass infection before they realise they are ill. Vaccination prepares the immune system for circulating strains, while ventilation, handwashing, and limiting close contact reduce opportunities for transmission.

Ask a healthcare professional whether seasonal influenza vaccination is recommended for you, particularly if you are pregnant, older, very young, or living with a long-term condition. Wash hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, clean high-touch surfaces, and improve airflow in shared rooms. Avoid close contact with people who are unwell. If symptoms start, stay home where possible, wear a well-fitting mask around others, and ask promptly about care if you are at higher risk.

Contact a clinician early if fever, chills, cough, headache, fatigue, or feeling generally unwell is severe or begins suddenly, especially if you have a higher-risk health condition. Urgent help is needed for breathing difficulty, chest pain, confusion, severe dehydration, or worsening after initial improvement. Influenza can lead to pneumonia, which needs medical assessment.

Ask whether vaccination is suitable, when it should be given, and what to do after close exposure. Ask which medicines are safe for you, whether early antiviral treatment is relevant, and which symptoms mean you should seek urgent help.