Most flu vaccine side effects are mild, expected and gone within a day or two, and they are a normal sign of your immune system responding to the jab. Knowing what counts as normal and what does not helps you feel confident before and after your appointment.
What Are Common Flu Vaccine Side Effects?
Not everyone experiences side effects, and when they do, they’re usually mild and settle without treatment.
Common flu vaccine side effects include:
- Soreness, redness or a heavy feeling in the arm where you had the injection.
- A slightly raised temperature.
- Aching muscles or joints.
- Feeling generally tired or under the weather.
The injected flu vaccine does not contain live flu virus, so it cannot give you flu itself.
How Long Do Flu Vaccine Side Effects Last?
For most people, side effects last no more than one to two days. Mild tiredness can occasionally last for up to a week.
If you’re feeling uncomfortable, getting plenty of rest and drinking fluids can help. You can also take a normal dose of paracetamol if needed. Your arm may remain tender for a little longer if you’re aged 65 or over.
Benefits of Getting the Flu Vaccine Despite Mild Side Effects
The benefits of flu vaccination far outweigh a day or two of mild discomfort. Getting your flu jab:
- Reduces your risk of serious flu complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
- Offers protection that builds over roughly two weeks, though this gradually decreases over time.
- Helps protect people around you who are more vulnerable to flu.
- Requires just one dose each year and does not contain live flu virus.
When to Seek Help After the Flu Vaccine
Serious reactions to the flu vaccine are very rare. However, knowing the warning signs means you’ll know when to get help.
Signs of a Serious Allergic Reaction
A severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, is very rare and usually happens within minutes of vaccination. Signs can include swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, a fast heartbeat or dizziness. Staff who give the vaccine are trained to recognise and treat this immediately.
When to Contact Your GP or NHS 111
Speak to your GP or call NHS 111 if your symptoms don’t improve after a few days, feel unusually severe or you’re concerned about how you’re feeling. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s sensible to trust your instincts and get advice rather than simply wait for it to pass.
Where Do You Get the Flu Jab?
You can get the flu jab free on the NHS through your GP practice if you are in an eligible group, or you can book a flu vaccine privately at a local pharmacy such as Townsend Pharmacy, which offers convenient appointments outside of GP opening hours for anyone who wants added protection.
Book Your Flu Vaccine at Townsend Pharmacy
If you’re planning to get your flu jab this winter, Townsend Pharmacy can make the process simple and straightforward. Our trained pharmacists offer a friendly private flu vaccination service and are happy to answer any questions you may have.
Book your flu vaccine today and get your vaccination sorted before flu season gets into full swing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to feel unwell after the flu vaccine?
Yes. Mild side effects such as a sore arm, slightly raised temperature or aching muscles are normal and usually settle within a day or two.
How long after the flu vaccine do side effects last?
Most side effects clear up within one to two days, though mild tiredness can occasionally last up to a week.
Can the flu vaccine give me the flu?
No. The injected flu vaccine does not contain live flu virus, so it cannot cause flu, though some people experience mild flu-like symptoms as their immune system responds.
When should I seek medical help after the flu vaccine?
Seek help if you develop signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing, or if mild symptoms do not improve after a few days.
Where do you get the flu jab?
You can get the flu jab free on the NHS through your GP practice if you are eligible or can book it privately at a local pharmacy such as Townsend Pharmacy.
How often do I need the flu vaccine?
You need one dose each flu season, since protection reduces over time and the vaccine is updated yearly to match circulating flu strains.