Living with asthma means Marie is at higher risk from flu. That’s why she chooses to get the flu vaccine every year to help protect her health and stay active throughout winter.
For 42-year-old Marie, vaccination is a simple step that helps her protect her health, her family and her busy lifestyle.
Marie lives with asthma and knows that flu could affect more than just a few days of her life. It could impact her work, everyday activities and one of her favourite hobbies, running.
“I get vaccinated to reduce my chances of getting flu during the winter.
If I got flu, it would have a big impact on my work and personal life, especially my running. I’d like to avoid that.
This year, Marie booked her appointment through the NHS App and received her vaccination at a local pharmacy. She says the process was quick and easy.
Having the vaccine has become part of her annual routine. For the past five years, she has taken up the offer of vaccination and encourages other eligible people to do the same.
I think it’s important to show people that it’s OK to get the jab and that it really can make a difference.
Protecting yourself and others
Although Marie has never had flu herself, she has seen friends and family become seriously unwell with it.
She understands that people with long-term health conditions can be more vulnerable to complications from flu and that vaccination offers important protection.
First and foremost, getting vaccinated helps protect you if you’re vulnerable, whatever your age.
If you have a health condition or a weakened immune system, it’s important to take every protection available.
It also helps protect people around us, including older relatives, friends and colleagues with long-term conditions.
Flu can affect people of any age
One of the messages Marie feels strongly about is that flu is not only a concern for older people.
Flu doesn’t discriminate or ask your age before it lands on your doorstep.
If you’re at risk of flu having a bigger impact on your health, getting vaccinated can help protect you and reduce that risk.
Marie hopes her story encourages others who are eligible to think about getting protected before winter arrives.
Check if you’re eligible for a free flu vaccine