THOUSANDS of Brits have been given the wrong flu jab which leaves them exposed to the deadly virus this coming winter.
Many people aged 65 years and over could have been given a flu jab which is ineffective for the age group.
Experts have called on healthcare professionals to revaccinate all those who received the wrong vaccines with an effective jab so they are protected against this virus this winter
In a letter, sent to NHS staff, Tim Davies, NHS lead for screening and immunisation, said that “a significant number” of over 65s had been given the wrong vaccine "nationally."
The jab, known as QIVe, does not create a strong enough immune response in those 65 and older to keep them protected from flu.
The vaccine is only meant be given to people between 18–64 years who have underlying health issues such as chronic heart disease or diabetes.
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An NHS spokesperson said: “A small number of people over 65 have been recorded as receiving the QIVe flu vaccine instead of the recommended vaccine type for this age group.
"There is no clinical risk for those affected," they explained.
“Local NHS teams regularly check in with providers to ensure the recommended vaccines have been administered correctly and on the small number of occasions where this isn’t the case, to see if it is appropriate to invite the patient back," they added.
What are the main symptoms of flu?
The symptoms of flu are very similar to those of a very bad cold.
The NHS says this includes a suffer high temperature of 38C or more.
A high temperature had previously been a symptom of Covid, but the experts said that this is less likely with the Omicron strain.
You will also experience body aches and a dry cough.
You may also have difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite and feeling or being sick.
This comes as the UK prepares for a "twindemic" of both flu and Covid.
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Health chiefs are worried both bugs will bounce back with a vengeance as the weather turns colder.
A source previously told The Sun: “It will be three years since the majority of people have had flu and we know Covid immunity wanes, too.
“It’s the first winter with Covid but with no restrictions.”
A sharp flu outbreak in Australia, whose winter happens during our summer, has raised fears the same will happen in the UK.
The 6 groups eligible for free flu jabs
Under plans announced last momth, about 33 million people in England will be eligible for a free flu vaccine this year.
This will include all primary-age and some secondary-age children, who will be offered the nasal spray.
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Those eligible for the flu jab are:
- People aged 50 and over
- Those aged six months to 49 with a specified health condition
- Secondary school-aged children focusing on Years 7, 8 and 9 with any remaining vaccine offered to Years 10 and 11
- Primary school-aged children
- Pregnant women; those in care homes, frontline health and social care staff
- Carers and the household contacts of people with weakened immune systems
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