Who needs a flu vaccination in 2020?

Abstract

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a number of specific viruses. These vary each year and the vaccinations we use reflect this. Most people recover from fever and other symptoms within a week without any features of complicated influenza. There are specific groups of people who are more susceptible to influenza and its resulting complications. Vaccination is the key to reducing risk and this should be promoted in general practice particularly for the ‘at risk groups'. It is more important than ever this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact this could have on NHS services if we also have a bad influenza season.