Advice from Our Registered Nurse – Flu Season is Here! Have You Had Your Flu Jab?

Posted on 10 November 2026
Advice from Our Registered Nurse - Flu Season is Here! Have You Had Your Flu Jab?

As we head into the colder months, I wanted to take a moment to talk about something that is particularly important at this time of year, the flu jab.

As a Registered Nurse, I have seen first hand how flu can affect people, particularly older adults and those living with long term health conditions.

For many of us, flu may mean a few days in bed feeling awful. However, for someone who is older, frail or living with conditions such as COPD, diabetes or heart disease, flu can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia and hospital admission.

So, you may wonder why is the flu jab so important?

The flu virus changes from year to year, which is why it’s important to have your vaccination every year. The vaccine helps reduce your chances of becoming seriously unwell, even if you do still catch the flu.

One thing I often hear is, “I had the flu jab last year, so surely I’m still protected?” and before I became a Nurse, I used to think the same.

However, I quickly learnt that was not how it worked especially after catching the flu myself (experience is the best teacher)

It is important to note that protection reduces over time, and the vaccine is updated each year to help protect against the strains expected to circulate.

My advice this flu season:

  • Don’t wait until flu is circulating in your household. If you’re eligible, arrange your vaccination as soon as possible.
  • Encourage older relatives to get vaccinated. As we age, our immune systems become less effective at fighting infections.
  • Remember that carers need protecting too. Whether you’re a professional care worker or looking after a loved one at home, protecting yourself also helps protect those around you.
  • Keep an eye out for changes in older relatives.
  • Flu doesn’t always present in the way we expect. Older people may become unusually tired, confused, weak or lose their appetite. Sudden confusion should always be assessed promptly.
  • Regular handwashing covering coughs and sneezes, and staying at home when unwell all help reduce the spread of infection.

A final word from me:

Prevention is always better than cure. A simple vaccination can make a real difference, particularly for someone who may struggle to recover from an infection.

If you haven’t had your flu jab yet, speak to your GP surgery or local pharmacy about getting protected. Many people, including those aged 65 and over and people with certain long-term health conditions, are eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination.

At SureCare Maidstone, we believe that good care isn’t just about supporting people when they are unwell. It’s also about helping them stay healthy, safe and independent in their own homes.

Stay warm, stay well and look after one another this winter.

Yours truly,

Joyce – SureCare Maidstone

Further information and trusted guidance:

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