Travel vaccine
Influenza (Flu)
An annual vaccine that helps protect against the flu strains expected each season.
About the illness
Influenza is a respiratory infection that can be far more than a heavy cold. It often brings fever, body aches, exhaustion and a cough that can linger, and it can lead to complications, particularly in older adults and those with underlying health conditions. Because the virus changes from year to year, the vaccine is updated each season.
Why travellers should think about it
Flu does not follow the same calendar everywhere. Travelling to the southern hemisphere, for example, can mean walking straight into their winter flu season at a time when it is summer at home. Long-haul flights and crowded transport hubs also make it easier to pick up the virus, so timely vaccination is a sensible precaution.
The vaccine and getting yours
A single annual dose is all that is needed, and it is best to have it ahead of the season you will be exposed to. To arrange your flu vaccination, contact Crewe Pharmacy, 139-141 Nantwich Road, during pharmacy opening hours. Our team can advise on the right timing for your travel plans and give the vaccine while you are here.
How it spreads
Spread through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes, and by touching contaminated surfaces.
Who should be vaccinated
Travellers heading into another country's flu season, anyone wanting seasonal protection, and those in close contact with people at higher risk.
Vaccination schedule
Single dose each year, ideally before the winter season
Boosters
A fresh dose is needed every year as the circulating strains change.
Possible side effects
A sore arm, mild aches and a slightly raised temperature for a day or two.
Regions where there is a risk
Worldwide (seasonal patterns vary by hemisphere).
Influenza (Flu) — frequently asked questions
Who should have the flu vaccine before travelling?
The flu vaccine suits travellers heading into another country's flu season, anyone wanting seasonal protection, and people in close contact with those at higher risk. It is especially worth considering before long-haul flights and time in crowded transport hubs. If you are visiting the southern hemisphere during their winter, vaccination is a sensible precaution.
How many doses of the flu vaccine do I need?
You need a single dose of the flu vaccine, ideally before the winter season you will be exposed to. One dose each year is all that is required for most adults. Our team at Crewe Pharmacy can give the vaccine while you are in, with no follow-up appointment needed for that season.
How long does the flu vaccine last?
The flu vaccine protects for one season, which is why a fresh dose is needed every year. Protection builds within about two weeks and then gradually fades over the following months. Because the circulating strains change from year to year, the vaccine is updated annually to match the strains expected each season.
How soon before travel should I get the flu jab in Crewe?
Aim to have the flu jab at least two weeks before you travel or before the season you will face, as that is roughly how long it takes for protection to develop. If you are heading to the southern hemisphere's winter, time it ahead of arrival. Contact Crewe Pharmacy and we will advise on the best timing for your plans.
What side effects can the flu vaccine cause?
Side effects from the flu vaccine are usually mild. You might have a sore arm, some mild aches and a slightly raised temperature for a day or two. These reactions show your immune system responding and tend to pass quickly. Serious reactions are uncommon, and our team will make sure you feel well before you leave.
Is the travel flu vaccine free on the NHS or private at Crewe Pharmacy?
Some people qualify for a free NHS flu vaccine, but if you are having it for travel and are not in an eligible group, it is a private service. At Crewe Pharmacy the flu vaccine costs £20. We are happy to vaccinate you whatever your reason, including protection ahead of an overseas trip.
How much is the flu vaccine in Crewe?
The flu vaccine costs £20 at Crewe Pharmacy. There is just one dose, so that single price covers your seasonal protection. To arrange it, contact us on 01270 215837 or visit us at 139-141 Nantwich Road during pharmacy opening hours and we can usually vaccinate you the same day.
Does flu season differ by destination?
Yes, flu does not follow the same calendar everywhere. The southern hemisphere has its flu season during the UK summer, so travelling there can mean walking straight into their winter outbreak. Tropical regions can see flu circulate year-round. We can advise on whether your destination's seasonal pattern makes vaccination worthwhile before you set off.