Leaflet3
Symptoms of flu include:
High temperature
Headache
Shivering
Aching limbs
General weakness
Sore Throat
Are you especially at risk?
Anyone can catch flu, but some are at higher risk from the effects than
others. You are in this category if you suffer from any of the following
conditions:
• Chronic respiratory disease, including asthma
• Chronic heart disease
• Chronic renal failure
• Diabetes mellitus
• Immunosuppression due to disease or
treatment
• All those aged 65 years and
over
Flu is a viral infection of the respiratory tract. People who get it
suffer unpleasant symptoms such as fever, headaches, aching limbs, weak
muscles, sore throats, runny noses and dry coughs. They're out of action for
days. And for some people, it can be weeks before they feel right again.
Living in close quarters?
Because flu spreads so rapidly, those living in nursing homes, residential
homes and other long stay facilities are also at high risk.
Every year the strain of flu is different. Medical teams monitor its
progress in other parts of the world and try to anticipate its characteristics
before it reaches this country. They then prepare the appropriate vaccine,
ready to protect you.
Flu vaccine is usually well tolerated and as with any vaccination, the
most common side effect is soreness around the site of the injection. You can
relieve this by pressing a cold cloth to it. Does it cause the flu? No.
However, some people may experience a slight fever which can be treated with a
recommended dose of paracetamol.
Most surgeries operate vaccination clinics in the autumn months prior to
the winter flu season. Ask your doctor or practice nurse for details.