Living with asthma means Hayley is at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell from flu. That’s why she gets the flu vaccine every year to help protect herself, her family and the people around her.
For 40-year-old Hayley Pearson from Wickford, getting vaccinated each year is an easy decision.
Hayley lives with asthma, which means flu could have a bigger impact on her health. As a busy mum with a demanding job, she wants to do what she can to stay well throughout the winter months.
She also makes sure her young daughter receives her flu vaccination when eligible.
To me, having the flu jab each year is a no-brainer.
I’m a busy mum with a demanding job, so when I can do something to help prevent getting ill, I will.~
Having asthma means I’m at greater risk of becoming very unwell if I catch flu, and I don’t want to pass the virus on to my family or colleagues.
Making vaccination part of my routine
Hayley received her vaccination through her workplace this year, but says there are different ways for eligible people to get protected, including through their GP practice or a local pharmacy.
She has been getting vaccinated for many years and sees it as an important part of looking after her health.
For Hayley, getting protected each winter is not just about reducing her own risk. It is also about helping to protect the people around her.
Seeing the impact of flu first-hand
As someone who works in the NHS, Hayley has seen the impact flu can have on patients, staff and healthcare services during the winter.
I think it just makes sense to protect yourself and those around you.
Flu can spread quickly, and every winter we see the impact it has on patients and staff.
I’d encourage anyone who is eligible to get their vaccination as soon as possible.
Flu is not just a risk for older people
Hayley is keen to challenge the common misconception that flu vaccination is only important for older adults.
She wants people with long-term health conditions to understand why they have been offered the vaccine.
If you’re eligible because you have a long-term health condition, that means you’ve already been identified as being at higher risk.
You might feel fit and well, but getting flu could really set you back or trigger something more serious.
Staying well for the people who rely on me
For Hayley, vaccination is about being there for the people who depend on her, both at home and at work.
Getting vaccinated helps me stay well for my family, my colleagues and the people we care for.
Find out if you’re eligible
The flu vaccine helps protect people who are at higher risk of serious illness from flu.
Check your flu vaccine eligibility