Friday 28th November 2014 – 10.00am – Claire Brown.
More than 1,300 ambulance staff have become ‘flu fighters’ by getting their free flu jab to protect themselves, their patients and their families this winter.
The Trust’s flu vaccination programme is well underway to protect our staff. Flu doesn’t care who it infects and we’re urging the public to protect themselves with a simple flu jab to prevent missing out on the fun during the festive season.
For most healthy people there’s no question it’s unpleasant but with good self-care you can start to feel better after about a week. For older people, the very young, pregnant women and those with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular health problems, it can sometimes be a lot worse.
Dr Andy Carson, the Trust’s Medical Director, said: “People with underlying health conditions in particular are 11 times more likely to end up in hospital if they catch the flu. I would urge anyone at risk of flu to speak with their GP about protecting themselves and their families this season.”
If I get the flu, what can I expect?
Expect a high temperature (more than 38 degrees Celsius) and a sudden cough. Other symptoms can include headache, feeling cold and shivery, aching muscles, limb or joint pain, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, loss of appetite and diarrhoea or an upset stomach.
What can I do to get better at home?
If you’re otherwise fit and healthy, there is no need to visit your GP with flu-like symptoms. The best thing you can do is rest, drink plenty of fluids and help ease a sore throat with cough lozenges, mixtures or sprays. If you are buying over the counter remedies, make sure you check with the pharmacist first to ensure they don’t affect medication you’re already taking.
ENDS