Information from the MS Trust:
This year, all UK nations are again running an expanded flu vaccination programme to encourage more people to have a flu jab and allow more people to have the flu jab for free. With Covid-19 still circulating in the community, a surge in seasonal influenza (flu) cases could overwhelm hospitals and other NHS services.
Flu can be a serious or even fatal illness, and each year causes thousands of people to become very ill. Like Covid-19, it is a viral infection that can be passed on through coughs and sneezes. If you have MS, you’re more at risk of becoming seriously ill from flu, even if you currently feel well.
By having the flu jab, you reduce your risk of having flu. If you do catch flu after having the vaccine, you are likely to have a milder illness. Having the flu jab also means you are less likely to have flu and Covid-19 at the same time, which could make you more unwell. It is best to have your flu vaccine early, so that you are protected before any outbreaks of flu. You need a new jab each year, as the strains of flu that are circulating change over time.
People with MS can have the flu jab for free every year. It is provided through pharmacies and GP surgeries, as well as workplaces and schools. You may be contacted by your surgery if you have been offered a flu jab in previous years.
You may be offered your flu jab at the same time as a Covid-19 vaccine booster dose. Research has shown that this is safe and that both the flu vaccine and the Covid-19 vaccine remain effective when given together.
Read more information here: https://mstrust.org.uk/news/views-and-comments/flu-season-2021