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The Flu Vaccine: Who Should Get It and When
The seasonal flu vaccine is the best protection against influenza. Learn who is most at risk, the best time to get vaccinated and answers to common questions.
Quick answer
The World Health Organization recommends yearly flu vaccination, especially for pregnant women, children aged 6 months to 5 years, adults over 65, people with long-term conditions such as diabetes, heart or lung disease, and health workers. Because flu viruses change, a new vaccine is needed each year, ideally before the flu season starts. The vaccine cannot give you flu.
In this article
Influenza (flu) is more than a bad cold. For most people it means a week or more of fever, aches and exhaustion, but for some it leads to pneumonia and hospital admission.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
The World Health Organization highlights these groups as priorities:
- Pregnant women, at any stage of pregnancy
- Children aged 6 months to 5 years
- Adults aged 65 and over
- People with long-term conditions such as diabetes, asthma, heart, lung or kidney disease
- Health workers
Many other adults also choose to be vaccinated to protect themselves and their families.
When to get vaccinated
Flu viruses change every year, so the vaccine is updated each season. In the UAE, flu circulates mostly in the cooler months, so getting vaccinated in early autumn gives protection before the peak. It takes about two weeks to build protection.
Is it safe?
Yes. Flu vaccines have been used for decades by hundreds of millions of people. Common side effects are mild: a sore arm, slight fever or aches for a day or two. Tell your doctor or vaccinator if you have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous vaccine.
Can the flu vaccine give me flu?
No. The injected vaccines do not contain live virus capable of causing flu.
Other ways to prevent flu
- Wash your hands often
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Stay home when you are unwell
- Keep shared surfaces clean
Where to get vaccinated
Ask our reception whether the seasonal flu vaccine is currently available at the clinic, or your doctor can advise where to get it.
Frequently asked questions
I had the vaccine last year. Do I need it again?
Yes. Protection fades and the virus strains change, so a yearly dose is recommended.
Can I have it if I have a cold?
A mild cold is usually not a reason to delay. If you have a high fever, wait until you are better.
For more on flu symptoms, read flu season in the UAE: when to see a doctor.
