Your FAQs on the flu vaccine
These are some answers to frequently asked questions regarding the children's flu vaccine. If your question is not listed here and you require more information, please visit Children's flu vaccine - NHS.
Q) Is the flu vaccine better than relying on natural immunity?
A) Yes, it is safer and more predictable. Natural immunity develops AFTER your body has been infected by the flu virus, which can result in serious illness or hospitalisation.
These are some common frequently asked questions regarding the childhood flu vaccine
Q) If I have had the flu before, do I still need the flu vaccine?
A) Yes! The flu vaccine protects the child from different strains of the virus.
In contrast, children who catch the flu “naturally” may catch flu a second time in the season. If a child catches flu, they only build immunity to that one type. They can still catch other types of flu later in the season.
Q) Can I still get the flu after being vaccinated?
A) Yes, you still might get the flu, but it won’t be as bad. The flu vaccine protects your child from getting really sick. It takes about two weeks to start working, and you need to get vaccinated every year as the protection fades over time.
Q) Can my child get a flu vaccine which doesn’t contain pork gelatine?
A: Yes. If you don’t want the nasal spray because it contains pork gelatine, you can ask for an injection instead. It’s safe and works well.