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October 15 Seasonal Flu - Protect Yourself and OthersThe Department of Health
have asked the Twyford Village Partnership to pass on this
information:
Free vaccinations against seasonal flu are available for people aged 65 and over and for adults and children aged 6 months to 65 years in certain risk categories from October 2009. Amid all the publicity surrounding swine flu, it is
important not to under estimate the impact of seasonal flu. Every year it
accounts for approximately 8,000 deaths. It can bring on serious complications
for people in “at risk” groups and lead to other serious illnesses such as
pneumonia. In the average winter, up to 15% of the population will be affected.
All people aged 65 and over qualify for the free
annual seasonal flu jab, and in addition adults and children aged six months to
65 years with the following conditions should also contact their GP for a free
seasonal flu jab:
- a heart problem
- a chest complaint or breathing difficulties including, bronchitis, emphysema - a kidney disease - lowered immunity due to disease or treatment (such as steroid medication or cancer treatment) - a liver disease - had a stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) - diabetes - a neurological condition e.g. multiple sclerosis (MS) or cerebral palsy - a problem with, or removal of, their spleen e.g. sickle cell disease. The jab can never offer 100% protection from seasonal flu, but does have a success rate of between 70 and 80% while others are more likely to get milder symptoms. Don’t forget, the seasonal flu jab does not protect against swine flu. Patients with seasonal flu typically have a fever
or a high temperature (over 38°C / 100.4°F) and two or more of the following
symptoms:
- unusual tiredness - headache - runny nose - sore throat - shortness of breath or cough - loss of appetite - aching muscles - diarrhoea and/or vomiting In those circumstances you should stay at home,
keep warm and rest, let a member of your family or friend know that you are ill,
drink plenty of liquids and eat what you can. If you are in an at risk group or
your symptoms get worse and you have chest pains or experience shortness of
breath, you should contact your GP.
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