Protect yourself from flu.

Look after your own health, and protect the NHS, by getting vaccinated if you’re eligible.

What is flu?

 

Influenza or flu is a viral infection that usually strikes between December and March. It can affect people of all ages.

The first signs are a headache, sore throat and a runny nose, aching muscles, fever and shivering. Flu makes you feel completely exhausted and this extreme fatigue may last for two to three weeks.

You can catch flu by inhaling the virus or by handling items touched by an infected person. The symptoms start to develop one to four days later.

Why should I be concerned about flu?

Most people who get the flu recover after a week or two, but some develop life-threatening complications such as pneumonia, nerve or brain damage.

You are more likely to be at risk from the complications of flu if you are in one of the 'at risk groups' and your body is already weakened.

How can I avoid getting flu?

 

The best way to avoid getting flu is to have a jab during the autumn- usually between October and November - each year. The Flu vaccination is free of charge for people in 'at risk' groups.

You need to have a jab each year to main your immunity, as the flu virus is always changing. The jab will not stop you getting coughs and colds, but can protect you against the lastest strain of flu.

You may have a temporary slight soreness at the injection site. A few people get slight fever, this this is short-lived.

As the vaccine is made from chicken eggs, you should not have a flu jab if you are allergic to eggs, chicken protein or if you have had a previous allergic reaction to a flu jab.

The flu vaccine does not cause flu.

Am I eligible for a free vaccination?

 

You are considered to be in an ‘at risk group’ and therefore eligible for a free flu jab on the NHS if:

  • You are aged 50 or over

  • You have had a Stroke or TIA (mini stroke)

  • You have reduced Immunity

  • You are the main Carer for an elderly or disabled person

  • You have Diabetes

  • You have Chronic Heart, Kidney, Liver or Lung Disease

  • You are Pregnant

If you fall into any of these 'at risk' groups, please contact the Surgery to make an appointment for a Flu jab.

If you have any questions please ask the Practice Nurse or a doctor.