Be Prepared For The Winter Chills !

As autumn turns to winter we see more patients for coughs, colds and flu. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus that usually strikes between October and May.

SYMPTOMS OF THE FLU.

• Fever (usually high), shivers and runny or stuffy nose
• Headache, extreme tiredness
• Dry cough, sore throat
• Muscle aches
• Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting and loose stools (more common in children).

TREATING FLU.

Flu lasts for 3-5 days and can be followed by fatigue for 2 or 3 weeks. As flu is a viral infection it cannot be treated with antibiotics The best remedy is rest while drinking plenty of fluids plus regular pain relief which will help with aches, pains and high temperatures. If symptoms go on for more than a week or are very severe consult your doctor.

Remember antibiotics have no effect against Flu!!!

GOOD HEALTH HABITS FOR PREVENTING THE FLU

1. Avoid close contact with people, who are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

2. Stay home when you are sick if possible you will get better sooner and avoid others from catching your illness.

3. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing to prevent others around you becoming sick.

4. Clean your hands washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.

5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.

6. Practice other good health habits get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.

GET VACCINATED AGAINST FLU

It is possible to get vaccinated against flu. This vaccine is offered to high risk patients who are more likely to have severe chest infections if they get flu. We offer it to:

• Everyone over 65 years old or carers.
• Anyone with asthma, diabetes, kidney or liver disease.
• Anyone with Multiple Sclerosis, conditions of the nervous systems or if you have had a stroke.
• Anyone with serious heart or respiratory conditions.
• Anyone who may have lowered immunity or at risk e.g. through disease or treatment.

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT FOR A FLU VACCINE NOW