Influenza Vaccine
In short
A medical injection or nasal spray designed to lower the risk of catching the flu and prevent serious illness from influenza viruses. New versions are created every year because the virus changes constantly.
In plain words
It is a way to train your body to fight off the flu before you get sick. You get a jab or a spray to help your immune system recognise the virus. This helps stop you from becoming very unwell.
A simple example
A person goes to their local pharmacy in autumn to receive their annual flu jab. This helps protect them during the winter months when the virus spreads most easily.
Why it matters
It reduces the number of people hospitalised and helps prevent the spread of the virus to vulnerable groups. Regular updates ensure the protection stays effective against new virus strains.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse it with the common cold vaccine, as they target completely different viruses.