For Braintree resident Teresa Honan, 52, catching flu is far more than a seasonal inconvenience – it can trigger a serious flare-up of her long-term health conditions.
Teresa lives with fibromyalgia and lupus, which means her immune system is weakened and she’s more vulnerable to infections such as flu. For her, getting the NHS flu vaccination every year is essential.
“If there’s a chance, I can be less poorly by having the flu jab, it would be irresponsible not to take up the offer,” said Teresa. “I would become more poorly than the average person, so it’s imperative that I look after myself – and others as well.”
Teresa caught flu last year for the first time and described how devastating it was.
“Flu not only leaves me bedbound, but it also flares both my fibromyalgia and lupus,” she explained. “I can’t regulate my body temperature, the pain throughout my body becomes unbearable, I suffer blurred vision and balance problems, and I get severe headaches. It’s sheer exhaustion for my whole body and takes a long time to recover.”
For Teresa, vaccination isn’t just about self-protection; it’s about protecting others too.
“Up until earlier this year I was in regular contact with my elderly parent, who was very susceptible to infection,” she said. “I always think about those around me who could become seriously unwell and do what I can to help keep them safe.”
Teresa encourages her friends and family to have the flu jab every year – regardless of age.
“Flu is unforgiving and has no age limits,” she added. “There are no barriers to who will catch it or how poorly they might become. Even if you’re fit and healthy, flu can hit hard. Getting vaccinated protects not only you, but also those around you.”
Find out more about vaccination and where to have yours