Reviewed by Aroga Pharmacy, GPhC Registered Pharmacy 1029011
Yes, you can usually have a flu jab even if you have a cold. A runny nose, sneezing or a mild sore throat does not normally mean you need to postpone your appointment. However, if you have a high temperature, it is best to wait until you feel better. Here is what to look out for before your vaccination.
Quick Answer
Yes, in most cases. Mild cold symptoms without a fever, such as a runny nose or sore throat, are not a reason to delay your flu jab.
Can You Have a Flu Jab With a Cold?
In most cases, yes. UK immunisation guidance in the Green Book confirms that a minor illness without a fever is not a reason to delay vaccination. The NHS also advises waiting if you have a high temperature.
When You Can Go Ahead
If you have a mild cold but no fever and feel reasonably well, you can usually go ahead with your flu jab. This includes symptoms such as:
- A runny or blocked nose
- Sneezing
- A mild sore throat or cough
- Otherwise feeling well
When to Wait
Wait until you are better if you have a high temperature or feel acutely unwell. Flu usually comes on suddenly with a high temperature, aching body, and exhaustion, while colds build more gradually and feel milder. A fever suggests your body is fighting a more significant infection, and delaying also stops vaccine side effects being mistaken for symptoms of your illness. If you are unsure, ask the vaccinator before your jab, or rebook once you are better.
Flu Vaccine Side Effects: What to Expect
Most flu vaccine side effects are mild and clear up within one to two days, according to the NHS. You might notice:
- Soreness where the injection was given
- A slightly raised temperature
- An aching body
Injected flu vaccines used in the UK contain no live flu viruses, so they cannot give you flu. Severe allergic reactions are very rare. Your vaccinator is trained to recognise and treat them if they occur.
Why You Should Not Delay Your Flu Jab
Delaying without good reason leaves you unprotected during flu season. The vaccine can take up to 14 days to work, and protection fades over time, which is why a fresh vaccine is needed every year.
Flu can be serious, particularly for older adults, pregnant women and people with long-term health conditions. The NHS offers free vaccination to eligible groups, so a minor cold should not usually stand in the way. You can check if you are eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine on the NHS website. You can also have the flu jab at the same time as the COVID-19 or shingles vaccines when appropriate, so one visit may cover more than one vaccination.
Still Unsure About Having a Flu Jab With a Cold?
Our pharmacists at Aroga Pharmacy in Farnham Common will assess your symptoms and advise whether to go ahead with your vaccination. We offer free NHS vaccinations for eligible patients and a private flu jab for those who are not eligible for a free one, so residents seeking flu vaccination in Hedgerley or flu vaccination in Gerrards Cross have a convenient nearby option.
Book your flu jab today, or contact our team if you have any questions and head into winter protected.
FAQs
Q. Can I have a flu jab with a cold?
Ans. Yes, in most cases. Mild cold symptoms without a fever, such as a runny nose or sore throat, are not a reason to delay your flu jab.
Q. Can I have a flu jab if I have a fever?
Ans. No, wait until you feel better. The NHS advises delaying your flu vaccine if you have a high temperature.
Q. Can the flu jab give me the flu or a cold?
Ans. No. Injected flu vaccines used in the UK do not contain live flu viruses. Some people feel achy or slightly warm for a day or two afterwards, which is a normal, mild reaction.
Q. How long do flu vaccine side effects last?
Ans. Usually one to two days. The most common are a sore arm, a slightly raised temperature, and an aching body.
Q. Who can have a free NHS flu jab?
Ans. Eligible groups include people aged 65 and over, pregnant women, adults with certain long-term health conditions, and others who meet the NHS criteria. Some carers may also qualify. Check the NHS eligibility criteria or ask your pharmacy if you are unsure.
Q. Where can I get a flu jab near Hedgerley or Gerrards Cross?
Ans. Aroga Pharmacy in Farnham Common offers NHS and private flu vaccinations to residents of Hedgerley, Gerrards Cross, and the surrounding area.