Does the flu jab protect me against COVID-19?

I had the flu and pneumococcal vaccine this year, am I protected from this virus?

No. Vaccines against pneumonia, such as pneumococcal vaccine, and flu vaccine, do not provide protection against the new coronavirus.

The virus is so new and different that it needs its own vaccine. Researchers are trying to develop a vaccine against the Coronavirus, but it is unclear when this will become available.

Although the flu and pneumococcal vaccines are not effective against COVID-19, vaccination against respiratory illnesses is highly recommended by major health organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) to protect your health.

Remember: Even during the pandemic, do not delay

Remember: Even during the pandemic, do not delay

Getting medical help quickly can save your life – time is truly of the essence. Hospitals will do their utmost to treat you in a safe environment.

References

1. World Health Organization (WHO) Q&A on coronaviruses 2. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public: Myth busters 3. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control: Information on COVID-19 for specific groups: the elderly, patients with chronic diseases, people with immunocompromising condition and pregnant women 4. EMA gives advice on the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories for COVID-19 5. World Heart Federation (WHF): The link between COVID- 19 and CVD 6. COVID-19 and the cardiovascular system 7. Are patients with hypertension and diabetes mellitus at increased risk for COVID-19 infection? 8. Position Statement of the ESC Council on Hypertension on ACE-Inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers 9. British Heart Foundation: Coronavirus: what it means for you if you have heart or circulatory disease 10. NHS: Stay at home advice 11. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public: When and how to use masks 12. COVID-19: chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine only to be used in clinical trials or emergency use programmes 13. WHO: How to handwash 14. WHO : Q&A : Masks and COVID-19 15. COVID-19 and Postinfection Immunity – Limited Evidence, Many Remaining Questions