Vaccinations 20 February 2026 3 min read

Five flu jab myths, gently busted

What the evidence actually says

We often hear the same worries at the counter. Here are the five biggest flu jab myths and the gentle truth behind each one.

Myth 1: It gives you the flu

The vaccine contains inactivated virus. It physically cannot replicate or cause flu. A sore arm or mild ache for a day is your immune system responding, not an infection.

Myth 2: I had it last year, I'm fine

Flu viruses change every year and immunity drops over time. Last year's jab won't fully protect you the next time flu is circulating.

Myth 3: I'm healthy, I don't need it

Even fit, healthy adults catch flu, and you can pass it to someone vulnerable in your family without knowing. The vaccine protects them too.

Quick reminders

Vaccinations take around 14 days to work
Eligible groups get it free on the NHS
Pregnancy is the right time, not a reason to skip it
No needles for kids. They get a nasal spray