Your Flu Vaccination

You are eligible for a flu vaccination this year, and the doctors at Burdwood Surgery strongly recommend that you have it.

Flu is a viral infection that can make you feel very unwell. In older, frail people and those with certain health conditions, flu can cause serious complications and can sometimes be life-threatening.

Having the flu vaccination is the best way to reduce your risk.

You cannot catch flu from the flu vaccine.

However, like any vaccination, it can cause some side effects. These are usually mild and short-lived and may include:

• A sore arm
• Feeling generally unwell for a day or so
• Headache
• Aches and pains

For most people, the benefits of having the flu vaccination significantly outweigh the risks.

If you are entitled to a covid vaccination you may be offered this alongside your flu. They can be safely given together.

Before your vaccination

If you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to a flu vaccine or another vaccine, such as swelling of the lips or tongue or difficulty breathing, the flu vaccine may not be recommended for you.

Please let us know if you have experienced a reaction like this.

When you attend for your vaccination, we will check that you are well and confirm that you are happy to proceed.

If you have a fever or are unwell on the day, please do not attend the surgery. Contact us and we will arrange for your vaccination to be given when you are feeling better.

We strongly encourage you to take up the offer of your flu vaccination to help protect you and your loved ones from serious illness this winter.

Published: Sep 10, 2026