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Health experts have warned that thousands of people could die from flu this winter, with NHS leaders issuing an "SOS" alert urging people to get vaccinated. UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) estimates show that deaths from flu in England stood at 7,757 last winter compared to 3,555 the year before. Child deaths involving flu also increased from 34 to 53. Sir Jim Mackey, NHS chief executive, said there was "no doubt" this winter will be "one of the toughest our staff have ever faced", including dealing with resident doctor strikes next week. Now, the NHS is urging people to get protected by getting flu jabs ahead of the winter season. Claire Nevinson, superintendent pharmacist at Boots, has now shared some expert advice on why getting vaccinated now is so important. Claire said getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself against flu and help reduce the spread of the virus. She said those eligible for NHS flu jabs should book their appointment as soon as possible, and those who aren't can book a jab as a paid-for service. At Boots, it costs £21.95, but the service is also offered by other pharmacies including Superdrug, Tesco , and Well Pharmacy. The Boots pharmacist explained: "Flu is an unpleasant virus that can make you feel very unwell, and getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself and help reduce the spread of the virus to others this winter. I encourage all those eligible for a free NHS flu jab to book their appointments as soon as possible. The flu jab service at Boots is quick and convenient, with walk-in options and easy online bookings available." Claire said: "The best time to have a flu jab to ensure maximum protection is in the autumn months before the virus begins to circulate. This allows the body to obtain optimum protection and immunity. "After you've received the jab, it usually takes around 10 to 14 days for you to be protected, so it's best to book your vaccination as early as you can." The pharmacist said: "No, injected flu vaccinations contain a tiny amount of an inactive flu virus that cannot give you the flu. Some people may experience a temporary raised temperature and aching muscles, and you may feel sore at the injection site, but these side effects tend to be mild and only last for a day or so." Like with any vaccination, it is normal to experience mild side effects after receiving a flu jab, said Claire. She explained: "These side effects are a result of your body's natural immune response as it builds protection against the flu virus. The most common side effects, such as a sore arm, fever or fatigue are generally mild and tend to resolve within one to two days. "To help your body recover and ease any discomfort, you can consider taking paracetamol if it’s suitable for you, stay well-hydrated, and ensure you get plenty of rest." Claire said you should have a flu vaccination annually as protection declines with time and the viruses that cause flu change every year. She said: "The viruses that cause flu change every year, which means the type of flu virus the vaccinations are designed to prevent this year will differ from last year. The protection from a flu vaccination also declines with time so it’s important to have a flu vaccination annually." "A flu jab is the best way to keep yourself and others protected from the virus this winter," Claire said. "Having the jab also reduces the risk of passing the virus onto others. After your jab, it usually takes around 10 to 14 days for you to be protected, so it's best to book your vaccination as early as you can."
