How Long Does the Flu Jab Last?
Each winter, flu spreads quickly through communities, affecting people of all ages. The flu jab is the most effective way to protect yourself and those around you. But many patients ask: how long does the flu jab last?
At South Ealing Pharmacy, we provide the NHS flu vaccine for patients in South Ealing, Acton, Hanwell, Brentford, and across West London. This guide explains how long immunity lasts, why you need a new jab every year, and the best time to get vaccinated.
How long immunity typically lasts
After receiving the flu jab, your body builds up protective antibodies. These antibodies help your immune system fight off flu viruses.
The protection usually lasts for several months. Most people remain protected throughout the peak flu season, which runs from autumn into the following spring.
Over time, however, antibody levels naturally fall. This means protection gradually reduces as the months pass.
Why you need a new flu jab every year
Flu viruses are constantly changing. New strains can appear each year, which means last year’s vaccine may not match this year’s circulating viruses.
The World Health Organization reviews global data on flu strains every year. The NHS then updates the flu vaccine to target the most likely strains for the coming winter.
By getting a new jab each year, you ensure the best protection. Even if you had the vaccine last year, it is not enough to protect you for the next flu season.
Effectiveness in different age groups
The flu jab is effective for most healthy adults, helping reduce the risk of catching flu and lowering the chance of severe illness.
For older adults, children, and people with long-term health conditions, protection is particularly important. Their immune systems may be weaker, which means flu could lead to complications.
Even if the vaccine does not stop you catching flu completely, it usually makes the illness milder and reduces the risk of hospitalisation.
Children are usually offered the nasal flu spray, which provides strong protection and helps limit the spread of flu in schools and families.
Flu jab vs nasal spray duration
Both the jab and the nasal spray provide protection through the winter season. The difference is in how they are given rather than how long they last.
The nasal spray is quick and painless, making it the preferred choice for children. The jab is used for adults, older people, and anyone who cannot have the spray.
In both cases, the protection lasts long enough to cover the main flu season. Annual vaccination remains necessary for ongoing protection.
Best time to get vaccinated
The best time to have your flu jab is in autumn before flu starts spreading widely. September and October are ideal months, though it is still worthwhile later in the season.
It takes about two weeks for your body to develop protection after the vaccine. Having it early means you are protected before flu levels rise.
At South Ealing Pharmacy, we begin offering NHS flu jabs at the start of the season. This makes it easy for patients in South Ealing, Ealing, Acton, Hanwell, and Brentford to get protected at the right time.
Who should get the flu jab
The NHS offers the flu jab free to many groups, including:
- Adults over 65
- Pregnant women
- People with certain long-term health conditions
- Children in specific age groups
- Frontline health and social care workers
Even if you are not eligible for a free NHS vaccine, you can still arrange a private flu jab for protection.
Why vaccination matters
Flu is more than just a heavy cold. It can cause serious illness, especially in vulnerable groups. Vaccination reduces the number of people infected, which also helps protect those who are most at risk.
By getting your jab, you protect yourself, your family, and your community.
NHS flu jabs at South Ealing Pharmacy
At South Ealing Pharmacy, we provide the NHS flu vaccine in a safe, convenient setting. Our trained team delivers jabs quickly and with minimal waiting times.
We welcome patients from South Ealing, Acton, Hanwell, Brentford, and across West London.
✅ Book your NHS flu jab online
✅ Visit our pharmacy directly
✅ Call us for advice and support
Key takeaway
The flu jab gives protection for several months, covering the main flu season. Because flu strains change and immunity fades, a new jab is needed every year.
The best time to get vaccinated is in early autumn, but it remains beneficial later too.
If you live in South Ealing, Ealing, Acton, Hanwell, Brentford, or West London, you can book your NHS flu jab today at South Ealing Pharmacy.
📞 Call us, visit in person, or book online to protect yourself and your family this winter.
