NOW is a good time to make sure you’re prepared for illnesses that commonly affect people when the weather turns colder, such as flu.
NHS Redditch and Bromsgrove CCG will again be supporting the Stay Well This Winter campaign, to help people look after their health over winter, including encouraging people in risk groups to have the flu jab.
Flu can hit quickly and often include a fever, chills, headaches and sore muscles, sometimes with a cough and sore throat.
If you’re fit and healthy there’s normally no need to see your GP, the best way to treat flu is to stay at home, keep warm and drink plenty of fluids.
You can also take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower a high temperature and relieve aches and pains.
For some people though getting flu can be more serious, such as:
· People aged over 65
· People with a serious medical condition, such as a heart complaint, lung disease such as asthma, liver disease or have suffered a stroke
· Pregnant women
· Young children
It’s important people in these groups are prepared, as they are more vulnerable. One way to make sure you’re ready is to have the flu jab.
Remember you still need the jab even if you’ve had it in previous years as flu strains vary from year to year, so this is the best way to make sure you’re protected.
The needle-free nasal vaccination is also available for parents to have at risk children vaccinated in a quick, easy way.
If you think you need the flu jab, check with your GP, practice nurse or local pharmacist. For more information visit www.nhs.uk/staywell
