All about flu and how to stop getting it: child version
Updated 22 September 2023
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About flu
Anyone can catch flu.
Flu is caused by a bug called a virus.
Flu can make you feel ill.
If you are very ill you might even need to go to hospital.
Signs of flu
Signs of flu include:
- blocked up nose
- painful ear
- sore throat
- high temperature
- difficulty breathing
- dry cough
- tiredness
- aches
Flu vaccine
Having a vaccine can help stop you catching flu.
The vaccine is a small spray up the nose.
The best time to have a flu spray is in the autumn.
You need a flu spray every year as flu can change each year.
Will the nasal spray make you feel ill?
After a nasal spray you may:
- have a runny or blocked nose
- feel a bit tired
- not feel very hungry
This will go away in a few days.
Further information
If you have any questions or want more information, talk to your school nurse.
You can also find information on NHS.UK.