'Flu is a nasty illness, lasting 7-10 days and is transmitted from person to person via coughs and sneezes. Symptoms include a fever, shivering, severe muscle pains and a headache. It can cause respiratory symptoms such as a cough, sore throat and a stuffy nose.

You can always talk to us to ask advice, either come in to see us or telephone
on 01904 721 541 or email us at info@thepriorypharmacy.co.uk

People at risk of serious complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia following ‘flu are:

• Older people and young children
• Patients with asthma, COPD, heart or kidney disease
• Patients taking oral steroids, chemotherapy, medicines to suppress your immune system

Your surgery should contact those at risk for a jab every autumn. Those that fall outside of the NHS guidelines can get the vaccination, but will have to pay privately. 'Flu is unpleasant, but for the general healthy population it is a short illness which people recover from quite quickly - this is why the NHS do not offer 'flu jabs to everyone.

Facts About Flu

• The 'flu vaccine is not 'live' and therefore cannot give you 'flu
• Just because you spend your time surrounded by people does not mean you are 'immune' to 'flu
• Deaths from 'flu and related illnesses are often underestimated but 3,000-4,000 people die every year
• Last year's 'flu jab will not protect you this year - the 'flu virus changes every year and the vaccine is made to protect against the 'strains' of 'flu that are most likely
• It is not possible to predict how bad 'flu will be each year, so don't be complacent - get a 'flu jab and you will be protected whatever happens
• The 'flu jab is given at special clinics at your GP practice in the autumn and early winter - if you are unsure whether you should have the vaccine, speak to your GP, pharmacist on 01904 721 541 or call NHS direct on 0845 4647