With the ‘Aussie flu’ predicted to hit the UK this winter, the NHS are heavily encouraging vaccinations to those who are more susceptible to the disease and those in contact with the most vulnerable. Although this winter’s flu season is expected to be one of the worst in recent history, it seems that every year we are nagged by our GPs and hear reports of the large numbers of people still not vaccinated despite the government’s extensive efforts. So why is achieving a satisfactory number of vaccinations still such a problem?

“Seeing what the jab has done to lots of older people has put me off. Anyway, I feel healthy enough- I’ll only consider getting it when it definitely works.”- Doreen Weston (age 74)

There is obviously still scepticism surrounding the effectiveness of the flu jab- especially in the elderly due to varying success rates in previous years. However, concerns over the side effects and the common misconception that the injection contains a live virus is also discouraging people from getting vaccinated.

So, perhaps a change in approach is needed. Instead of the same old adverts designed to guilt-trip or simply scare you into the doctor’s chair, detailed information on how the flu jab works could be more effective. Allowing people to understand the benefits of vaccinations instead of force-feeding them the basics may help the flu jab become just another part of their winter routine and therefore preparing us all for whatever the Aussies throw our way.

Kate Norton- Bromley High School