The winter is here and it has brought its usual nasty viruses along too!
Flu is a contagious illness caused by influenza viruses. Airborne droplets produced by coughing and sneezing predominantly spreads these viruses.
The infectious period normally begins 1 day before symptoms develop and for up to 7 days after the individual has become unwell. Therefore, simply avoiding people who look ill will not give sufficient defence against this virus.
Flu vaccines are an effective way of reducing your risk of contracting influenza.
Why is it important to get vaccinated?
– To protect you and your family from flu this winter
– To minimise sick time needed from work
– To promote health and wellbeing
– To lower the risk of debilitating illness over Christmas
– To reduce the possibility of needing to access healthcare/hospital
Flu is a risk to all individuals, it is important to protect our health and well-being and reduce the risk of passing on nasty viruses to the vulnerable individuals around us
Some people may be eligible for a free flu vaccine at their local NHS facility or pharmacy. For those who don’t qualify, there are private clinics that will accommodate your needs and offer the flu vaccine for a reasonable cost.
Will it make me ill?
The injectable quadrivalent vaccine is inactivated and is therefore not infectious. Mild side effects include fever and muscle aches in the first 24 hours. These usually ease very quickly.
Do I have to have it every year?
It is recommended that you receive the vaccine every year to ensure that your immunity levels are sufficient to protect you.
I’ve never had the flu so I don’t need the vaccine.
Your body may be healthy enough the get rid of any flu viruses quickly without causing too much illness. This does not means that you are not at risk of infecting others around you, especially young children and the elderly, whose immune systems are less resilient.
Usually, flu season appears at its worst from November to February. However, last year, flu cases were still being reported in May. It is never too late to safeguard yourself, your family, friends and colleagues from avoidable viruses like flu.
Gemma Hicks
Specialist Nurse
Travel Klinix
77c Moor St
Earlsdon
Coventry
024 7601 6519
