Influenza, or ‘flu’, is a highly contagious acute viral infection that affects people of all ages. It typically starts suddenly with fever, chills, headache, aching muscles, general prostration and a cough or other respiratory symptoms. While most people recover without complications in 1 to 2 weeks, flu can cause serious illness and death, especially in the very young and the elderly. Flu epidemics occur mainly in the winter months and can result in widespread disruption to healthcare and other services. A vaccine is produced every year based on the strains of virus expected to be circulating.
Flu Vaccinations
Please note that influenza injections are only available to patients over 65 years old and to younger people in specified at risk groups such as those with diabetes, chronic heart disease and asthma/COPD. If in doubt please ask our practice nurses or reception staff for help.
Some patient information documents on flu are shown below
Preventing Flu
Flu and flu-like illnesses
Depatment of health useful flu links