Flu is one of the most common conditions in the UK that drastically changes how you feel. No matter how old you are or how fit and healthy you are, you are always at risk at catching flu. If you have been told by a health professional that you have flu, it is recommended that you stay at home and follow guidance and recommendations. Antibiotics are not the medication for flu, despite what a lot of people may say. Antibiotics are only good for treating bacterial infections and have no effect what so ever on viruses like the flu.
Flu stands for Influenza and is classed as an infectious disease, caused by the Influenza virus. Symptoms experienced by both male and female sufferers can be minor to major and often include high fever, sore throat, pains and aches throughout the body, coughing and headaches. Flu can cause complications to individuals including pneumonia, bacterial and sinus infections as well as worsening of any current medical conditions you might have such as asthma or heart issues.
Frequent washing of the hands is one of the ways to keep flu at bay if you know someone who has already got the virus such as a family member or work colleague. However, one of the most effective ways of avoiding flu is to have a vaccine injected in to the body, known as the flu jab.
Flu jabs
Flu jabs are released yearly to protect against high variable flu viruses that often mutate, hence the reason the previous years vaccine can be ineffective against the coming years strain of flu. Each seasonal vaccination contains antigens (antibody generators) which combats usually 3 or 4 strains of the virus. Some nasal sprays are also available to provide the same level of protection as the jab.
Because the flu virus can be more dangerous to some people more than others, there are documents of criteria that advise individuals to be vaccinated against flu including; anyone over the age of 65, women who are pregnant, children with health conditions or weakened immune systems and adults with long term conditions. However, there is no limit on who can have the flu vaccination should you wish to do so, but the minimum recommended age tends to be 6 months+. Please consult one of our professionals if you have any doubts or concerns.
Don’t risk the complications of flu
One of the major reasons why the flu vaccine exists is because of the serious complications that can arise from the virus. The main one being pneumonia (infection of the lung). Research in the UK shows that the vaccine against flu is very effective and will help prevent you from getting the flu. However, it won’t stop all flu viruses that exist but if you are unfortunate to still catch the flu, it is likely to be much of the much more mild variety and you will recover quicker than someone who has not had the vaccine.
The most effective time of the year to be injected with the flu jab is in the autumn time (around late September), however, flu jabs are available all year round and if you missed the opportunity you can request the jab almost immediately.
If you would like to talk to one of our qualified health professionals about Influenza regarding concerns you have or would like to arrange a vaccination, please do not hesitate to get in touch today.
Tags: Flu, Flu Jab, Pneumonia, Winter Flu
