As a GP working closely with people living with asthma and other lung conditions, I know that winter can be a very worrying time. But there are simple and practical steps you can take to protect yourself. We’re here to guide you through them.
Why should I have my flu vaccine?
If I could give just one piece of advice to anyone with a lung condition this winter, it would be to get your flu vaccine. Flu can be a very serious illness and if you have a lung condition and catch flu, you’re more at risk of having an asthma attack or flare-up.
Vaccines are one of the most important things that the NHS does to prevent illness and save lives. They are a safe and effective way to lower your risk of becoming seriously unwell and help keep you out of hospital.
The flu vaccine cannot give you flu or any other virus. But it will help your immune system to fight the virus so that you will be less unwell if you do catch the flu. It can be helpful to think of the vaccine like an extra layer of protection for your immune system.
Getting a flu vaccine can also protect others by reducing the spread of flu to family, friends and people who are at high risk.
You may also be eligible for the COVID-19, RSV and pneumococcal vaccines.
Is it too late to get my flu vaccine?
Not at all. The vaccine needs time to help your immune system prepare to fight the flu, and flu levels are already rising.
The flu season lasts until March, so there’s still plenty of time where it can help to protect you.
If you haven’t had your vaccine yet, it’s best to get it as soon as possible.
I had my flu vaccine last year. Do I need another one?
Yes. Flu changes every year, so the vaccine is updated to protect you from the type of flu that’s spreading each year. Having the vaccine every year gives you the best protection.
The UK Health Security Agency has more information about the different types of flu that are spreading this season.
It’s worth remembering that the flu vaccine won’t protect you against colds and other viruses like COVID-19 and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). That’s why it’s important to have those vaccines too if you’re invited.
How can I get my flu vaccine?
Ask your GP surgery to book your flu vaccine for you and any other vaccines you’re eligible for.
If you’re aged 18 years old or over and have a lung condition, you can also book your flu vaccine for free at your local pharmacy. Many are open evenings and weekends, so it’s easier to fit around your everyday routine.
Most children aged 4-11 will be offered the flu vaccine at their school. If they have missed it for any reason, you can also ask your child’s GP practice if they can have it there instead. Children aged 2 to 3 will also usually have their vaccine at their GP practice.
How is the flu vaccine given to children?
Most children will have a nasal spray vaccine, which is quick and painless.
The nasal spray vaccine gives children the best protection against catching and spreading flu.
Some children are not able to have the nasal spray vaccine. The UK Health Security Agency lists all the reasons why they may not be able to have the nasal spray vaccine including severe asthma and allergies.
If your child is under 2 years old or they cannot have the nasal spray vaccine, they may be given an injection into their upper arm or thigh.
Will wearing a mask help protect me from flu, colds and viruses?
Quite a few of my patients choose to wear a mask to help reduce the chance of catching and spreading viruses.
They often tell me it helps them feel more confident through the winter months, especially in crowded indoor places like shops, or when they’re out and about on public transport.
Wearing a mask isn’t something everyone needs to do, but it’s a simple step that gives some people extra piece of mind.
What else can I do to stay well this winter?
As well as getting your vaccines, there are lots of things you can do to help you stay well this winter when you have a lung condition:
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Follow your self-management plan, for conditions such as COPD, bronchiectasis and pulmonary fibrosis and reach out for help if your symptoms are getting worse.
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Take your preventer medicine every day, as prescribed, even when you feel well
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Always carry your reliever inhaler with you, if you have one, to use in an emergency
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If you use an inhaler, check you’re using the right technique. This helps make sure you’re breathing all the medicine into your lungs where it’s needed.
Staying on top of simple hygiene habits can help you avoid catching and spreading flu and other viruses.
This includes things like washing your hands with warm soapy water, cleaning surfaces you touch often, and covering your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough.
Where can I get more support if I need it?
We want to everyone with a lung condition to stay well this winter.
Our free Winter Wellbeing Guide includes tailored advice and support to look after your lungs and your overall wellbeing. You can also find more information on our website about flu and winter lung health, including cold weather and your lungs.
If you ever feel unsure or have a question about living with a lung condition, our helpline team is also always here to listen and support you.
We're with you this winter
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Call our helpline for support with your condition. Get advice on your medicines, symptoms or travelling with a lung condition, or just call us to say hello.
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