Introducing our NPA Myth or Fact: Winter Wellness series, designed to raise awareness and share helpful advice to support everyone in staying safe and well throughout the colder months.
Throughout the next few months, we will also be sharing a series of videos and reels across our social media channels featuring Pooja Purkayastha, Advice and Support Pharmacist from the Pharmacy Advice and Support team, offering practical tips and helpful reminders to help you stay well this winter.
For further advice on how to keep safe and well during the winter months, speak to your local pharmacy team, who can provide guidance and support tailored to your needs. Help us spread awareness by sharing our blog with friends, family and your wider community, so we can work together to help keep everyone safe and well this winter.
The flu vaccine can give you the flu. Myth or fact?
MYTH!
The flu vaccine cannot give flu. You might experience mild side effects, such as a sore arm or slightly raised temperature, but these usually go away within a couple of days.
Can you catch a cold just from being out in cold weather. Myth or fact?
MYTH!
Colds are caused by viruses, not cold weather itself. But viruses can spread more easily in winter because we tend to spend more time indoors and close to other people.
Taking vitamin C supplements can prevent flu. Myth or fact?
MYTH!
Vitamin C helps keep your immune system healthy, but there's no good evidence that taking extra vitamin C prevents flu. Getting your annual flu vaccination, if you're eligible, is one of the best ways to protect yourself.
You can spread flu before you even know you're ill. Myth or fact?
FACT!
You can pass flu on to others from around a day before your symptoms appear. That's why good hygiene, including washing your hands and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, is so important.
Washing your hands regularly helps prevent the spread of flu and other infections. Myth or fact?
FACT!
Washing your hands with soap and water helps stop germs spreading. Aim for around 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. It's a simple habit that helps protect you and others.
Older people are more likely to become seriously ill from flu. Myth or fact?
FACT!
People aged 65 and over are at greater risk of serious complications from flu, including pneumonia. Getting your flu vaccination every year is one of the best ways to reduce that risk.
Your pharmacist can help if you have flu symptoms. Myth or fact?
FACT!
Your pharmacist can recommend medicines to help relieve your symptoms and check they're safe for you to take. They can also advise you when you might need further medical help. You don't always need a GP appointment to get advice.
If you're healthy, you don't need a flu vaccine. Myth or fact?
MYTH!
Even healthy people can catch flu and become seriously unwell. Vaccination is particularly important for those at greater risk of complications, but everyone can benefit from protection. If you're not eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine, you may still be able to get vaccinated privately at your local pharmacy.
You need a flu vaccine every year. Myth or fact?
FACT!
Flu viruses change over time, and protection from previous vaccinations gradually reduces. That's why the flu vaccine is updated each year to help protect against the viruses expected to circulate.
Antibiotics can help you recover from flu. Myth or fact?
MYTH!
Flu is caused by a virus, and antibiotics only work against bacteria. They won't treat flu or help you recover faster. Your pharmacist can recommend ways to manage your symptoms and advise when to seek medical help.
Further links for winter wellness including England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
England:
Influenza (Flu) vaccine factsheet – Information for patients, parents and carers - GOV.UK
Your guide to who’s eligible for the autumn 2026 flu vaccine – UK Health Security Agency
Northern Ireland:
Scotland:
Wales:
NHS 111 Wales - Health A-Z : Flu
NHS 111 Wales - Health A-Z : Cold, common
About the flu vaccine - Public Health Wales
