Even when flu jab clinics are free, convenient and promoted well, uptake can still lag and more often than not, the reason is simple: misinformation or confusion.
At Fleet Street Clinic, we frequently hear concerns from our patients about the flu vaccine. In UK studies, a substantial share of vaccine-hesitant adults report uncertainty or mistrust citing doubts about safety, efficacy or health systems as barriers to getting the flu jab. Paired with myths like “I never get ill” or “It gave me flu last time,” these beliefs can seriously affect workplace health outcomes.
So, we’re here to clear them up:
Myth 1: “The flu jab gives you the flu.”
Fact: It’s impossible. Flu vaccines don’t contain live virus.
Myth 2: “I’m healthy, so I don’t need it.”
Fact: Healthy people can still get flu and spread it to others.
Myth 3: “I got the jab last year and still got sick.”
Fact: No vaccine is 100% effective, but the jab reduces symptom severity and speeds up recovery.
Myth 4: “I’m pregnant/allergic/on medication, so I shouldn’t get it.”
Fact: Most people with health conditions are encouraged to get vaccinated. Always consult your GP if unsure.
Myth 5: “I’ll just wait until more people get it.”
Fact: Flu season moves fast. Early protection is far more effective.
When teams understand the real benefits of vaccination, uptake improves, protecting not just individuals but the wider workplace. Busting these myths helps reduce sick days, maintain productivity and create a healthier, more resilient team environment.
At Fleet Street Clinic, we support workplaces by:
– Providing clear guidance on vaccine suitability for staff
– Answering questions in consultations
– Helping organisations plan flu vaccination campaigns that are easy, convenient and trusted
Let’s make this the year your team gets protected and informed. Book your workplace flu clinic today or get in touch to learn how we can support your campaign.
Sources:
- National Library of Medicine, 2023 – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9861815/
- National Library of Medicine, 2022 – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8935008/
- BMJ Public Health , 2024 – https://bmjpublichealth.bmj.com/content/2/1/e000929
- BMC Health Services Research, 2023 – https://bmchealthservres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12913-023-10141-2
