New super flu vaccine rollout begins as NHS regroups from 'busiest summer'
Summary
The NHS in the UK has started giving out an updated flu vaccine to protect against last year's Super-K flu strain. Priority groups for the vaccine include schoolchildren, pregnant women, and older adults, with vaccinations available at schools, pharmacies, and GP offices.Key Facts
- The updated flu vaccine targets a mutated strain called subclade K or Super-K, which caused an early and intense flu season last year.
- Schoolchildren and pregnant women can get the free flu vaccine starting in September or earlier.
- People aged 65 and over, and others in risk groups, can get a free flu shot from October with an invite from the NHS.
- Flu viruses change every year, so vaccines are updated to match the latest versions.
- The vaccine helps the immune system fight flu and cannot cause the illness.
- Adults get injections, while children aged two and older usually get a nasal spray.
- NHS staff are preparing early due to high pressures on health services from last year’s busy flu season and summer demand.
- Some adults will also be offered a new vaccine for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) if they are 65 or older with certain health issues.
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