Flu Vaccination Myths & Facts: What You Need to Know for 2025
Why Flu Vaccination Is So Important
Every flu season comes with uncertainty — about how bad it will be, whether the vaccine works, and who really needs it. At Ashworths Clinic, we believe in clear, evidence-based information. Let’s separate fact from fiction and help you make informed decisions for your health this year.
Why flu vaccination matters
Flu (influenza) isn’t “just a cold.” It can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, exacerbation of chronic diseases (like asthma or diabetes), hospitalisation, and even death — especially in vulnerable groups. Vaccination reduces your risk, protects those around you (especially children or older adults), and lessens strain on healthcare systems.
Even in mild seasons, vaccination can cut illness duration, severity, and the chance of spreading flu to family or colleagues.
5 Common Myths — debunked
Myth 1: The flu vaccine gives you the flu
Fact: The vaccine contains inactivated (killed) virus or parts of the virus. You can’t catch the flu from it. Sometimes people experience mild symptoms like soreness or low fever, but that’s your immune response — not the flu itself.
Myth 2: I’m healthy — I don’t need it
Fact: Even healthy adults can suffer complications or spread flu to those at higher risk. Vaccination contributes to community immunity and lowers your personal risk.
Myth 3: It’s too late in the season to get vaccinated
Fact: It’s best to get vaccinated before flu circulates widely, but it’s rarely “too late.” Vaccination during flu season still provides protection and is better than not being vaccinated at all.
Myth 4: The vaccine is ineffective
Fact: Flu vaccines vary in efficacy (often 40–60% depending on match and year), but even partial protection reduces severity, hospitalisation risk, and complications.
Myth 5: I already got the flu this year — no need for the vaccine
Fact: Influenza viruses change over time. Getting last year’s flu does not protect you from this year’s strains — vaccination is still important.
Who should get vaccinated & when
Who should get it:
- Older adults (65+).
- People with chronic health conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension).
- Pregnant women.
- Young children & infants.
- Carers, healthcare workers, and household contacts of vulnerable people.
- Anyone wanting to reduce the risk of illness and spread.
When to get vaccinated:
Ideally, in early autumn (September–October), before flu season ramps up. But if you miss that window, getting it later is still beneficial.
In some years, multiple flu vaccine strains are included depending on predictions and WHO guidelines — staying informed is key.
How Ashworths Clinic makes it easy
At Ashworths Clinic, we aim to make flu vaccination simple and stress-free:
- Book online or by phone with flexible slots, Monday to Saturday.
- Appointments are prompt, efficient, and in a friendly, calm environment.
- Delivered by trained clinicians for safety and reassurance.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden costs.
- Aftercare support: we’ll answer questions, provide advice, and remind you about future vaccinations.
Your health matters. Getting a flu shot is a small action with a big protective effect — for you and your community.
Protect yourself and your loved ones this flu season. Book your flu vaccination at Ashworths Clinic in Ashford, Lyminge, or Folkestone today.
