Influenza
Influenza (flu) is a highly infectious and potentially serious illness. It is a common infectious viral illness, spread by coughs and sneezes. It can be very unpleasant, but you will usually begin to feel better within 7-10 days. The symptoms include; a high temperature (of 38C or above), fatigue/weakness, headaches, general aches & pains and a dry chesty cough. If symptoms continue for over 2 weeks please seek medical advice. Vaccinations are given to help prevent you from catching this.
Eligibility
Each year the make-up of the seasonal flu vaccine is designed to protect against the influenza viruses that the World Health Organization decide are most likely to be circulating in the coming winter. Seasonal flu vaccinations are given free of charge to patients aged 65 years and over, and for those deemed to be at greater risk because of certain medical conditions and pregnancy. To see if you are eligible this year, contact the practice for further details or visit the NHS website.
When Is It Available?
Our surgery offers annual flu clinics from September for all patients that are eligible. The doctors and nurses also give them opportunistically during their clinics, so please ask for one during your appointment if you are eligible. Should you be house-bound and need an immunisation this will be administered by either a doctor or nurse during a routine home visit.
Child Nasal Flu
Children are also at risk of catching the flu, we therefore offer a child nasal flu vaccination each year to those who are eligible. Most children will have this done at school, but those aged 2-3 and those with certain health conditions will be invited to have it done at the practice. The nasal flu is grown on egg cultures so please inform the nurse if you know your child has an egg allergy.
Please visit the NHS website for more information on what the flu is like with children.