The flu season hits between October and April every year.

Flu is an extremely contagious disease; it can be spread through coughing, sneezing or touching. The single most effective way to prevent flu and the spread of germs is to get vaccinated every year.

Symptoms include high fever, muscle weakness, a sore throat and nasal congestion. Complications can include ear infections, chest infections and even pneumonia

A total of 7.6 million working days are lost in the UK each year because of flu, at a cost of £17 billion to employers. and causing considerable impact on the 3.9 million self employed, who do not benefit from statutory sick pay.

For some businesses and individuals, having flu vaccinations can help protect their livelihood in these difficult times. It can also help to reduce the chances of passing on the virus to family and friends.

The National Pharmacy association is encouraging the public to protect themselves against flu by observing good hand hygiene and considering the latest seasonal vaccine which protects against seasonal flu strains and the H1N1 swine flu virus.

You can get the vaccination free from your GP if you are aged 65 or over, have certain medical conditions, are a frontline health worker of if your GP believes you to be at serious risk of developing complications from flu.

If you do not meet the NHS vaccination criteria, but would like to protect yourself flu vaccinations are available privately from H Shackleton Ltd, Nevill Street, Abergavenny, at a cost of £12.50.

Some exclusions apply, and vaccinations are not available to children under the age of 12.

Contact Shackleton's on 01873 853219 or call in to book an appointment.

There will be a short consultation with a trained pharmacist to ensure you are suitable and the vaccination will be given in their private consulting room.

There is limited availability of stock, so to make sure you don't miss out, early vaccination is advisable.

If you are a business and feel that flu vaccinations would protect your workforce this winter, please contact us to discuss business rates.

Flu vaccination - the common questions

Can the flu jab cause flu?

Absolutely not. The World Health Organisation approved vaccine that is used contains no live flu virus so it is impossible to give you the flu.

Will having the jab hurt?

Discomfort is minimal. The injection is given in the upper arm via a small needle and only takes a couple of seconds.

Is there anyone who shouldn't have the jab?

A few. You shouldn't be vaccinated if you: have a serious allergy to hens' eggs; have had an allergic reaction to a previous flu vaccine or are allergic to latex or rarely, to certain medicines. Flu vaccine is safe at any stage of pregnancy.

Does having the jab protect you for life?

No. You have to be vaccinated every year as the flu virus constantly changes.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects are extremely uncommon. Some people may feel slight soreness in their arm where they had the injection. Occasionally a slight temperature or headache 24 hours after the jab may be experienced.

Can anyone catch flu?

Yes, no matter how fit and healthy you are.

Does the NHS provide flu jabs?

Yes, but it focuses its effort of specific "at-risk" groups such as the over 65s. Healthy adults only receive a flu vaccine if provided by their employer or if they choose to pay for it privately.

Does the vaccine protect against colds?

No. The viruses that cause colds are different from the viruses that cause flu.