Influenza (FLU)

Flu is caused by a virus and viruses are not usually treated with antibiotics.

Flu is a self limiting disease and your body will fight off the infection.

Symptoms of flu should be treated i.e. rest, keeping cool, plenty of fluids and paracetamol or ibuprofen (which will relieve pain and reduce the temperature).

Most coughs & colds are not the Flu, but milder viral illnesses, and the Flu vaccine will not prevent you from getting these milder illnesses. However the Flu vaccine is important in preventing Flu in patients in the following groups:

• Chronic respiratory Disease including Asthma
• Heart disease, Diabetes & Kidney disease
• your immune system is suppressed, either by illness or treatment e.g. chemotherapy or steroids
• you are over 65
• People working with groups of vulnerable others e.g. Hospitals, Care Homes

More information about the Flu vaccine and eligibility criteria can be found at here.

Flu vaccine and coronavirus (COVID-19)

Flu vaccination is important because:

• more people are likely to get flu this winter as fewer people will have built up natural immunity to it during the COVID-19 pandemic
• if you get flu and COVID-19 at the same time, research shows you're more likely to be seriously ill and may require admission to hospital for treatment
• getting vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 will provide protection for you and those around you for both these serious illnesses

If you've had a confirmed COVID-19 infection, it's safe to have the flu vaccine. It will still be effective at helping to prevent flu.

It is important you go to your vaccination appointments unless you or someone you live with has symptoms of COVID-19 or are awaiting the outcome of a test result.

FLU Vaccination Programme 2022-2023

Please phone us now to book in for your Autumn 2022 flu vaccination - our clinics are running on Sunday 9th & Sunday 16th October 4pm to 8pm. Please don't just turn up - you will need an appointment to be vaccinated - Tel the practice on 02920 545260