Morning Flu Jabs More Effective

Morning flu jabs produce the most defensive antibodies, a study has found.

18:23 26 April 2016

Scientists from the University of Birmingham found that flu jabs given before lunch provoke a stronger immune response than those given later in the day. The trial, which was conducted at 24 doctors’ practices, suggested that immunising people in tune with the body’s natural rhythm could be a cheap way to save lives.

 

The trial looked at 276 healthy people, aged over 65 who were vaccinated either in the morning session (09:00 to 11:00) or in the afternoon (13:00 to 17:00). Those who were vaccinated in the morning produced significantly more antibodies against two of the three flu strains in the jab.

Dr Anna Phillips, one of the researchers from the University of Birmingham, said that the test can change NHS practice.

 

"A lot of surgeries just try and fit in vaccination anyway so it's not going to risk any patient, it's not going to cost anything and even if we're wrong you've nothing to lose by doing this.

 

"I think it's fantastic, the idea of an intervention this easy to do and free is unheard of in terms of trying to change NHS practice."