Thursday, July 25, 2013

Flu Vaccination, please book your appointment

SEASONAL FLU VACCINATION
We are heading towards the seasonal flu season and you are entitled to a free flu vaccination if you:-. 
· are 65 years of age or over
· are pregnant
· have a long-term medical condition, such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease, lung disease, kidney or neurological disease
· have a weakened immune system (the body's natural defence against infection and illness)
· live in a residential home
· are a carer for someone else
Flu can be more serious for these groups
You can book your appointment for October 2013 now by telephoning us on 01404 814447 or if you have signed up to SystmOnline you can book your appointment  online via the practice website.
ABOUT FLU
Flu is a highly infectious and very common viral illness that is spread by coughs and sneezes.  It's not the same as the common cold. Flu is caused by a different group of viruses and symptoms tend to be more severe and last for longer. You can catch flu - short for influenza - all year round, but it is especially common in winter, which is why it is also known as 'seasonal flu'.  Flu causes a sudden high temperature, headache and general aches and pains, tiredness and sore throat.  You can also lose your appetite, feel nauseous and have a cough. Flu symptoms can make you feel so exhausted and unwell that you have to stay in bed and rest until you feel better.


WHEN TO SEE THE DOCTOR
If you are otherwise fit and healthy, there is usually no need to see a doctor if you have flu-like symptoms.  The best remedy is to rest at home, keep warm and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. You can take paracetamol or 
ibuprofen,  to lower a high temperature and relieve aches.

You should see a doctor if you have flu-like symptoms and you are
- 65 or over
- are pregnant
- have a long-term medical condition such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, kidney or neurological disease
- have a weakened immune system

Antibiotics are of no use in the treatment of flu because it is caused by a virus and not bacteria.

No comments:

Post a Comment