Go for it!

Flu and you

Fevers, chills, extreme fatigue and aching muscles as well as the more cold-like symptoms of sore throats and runny noses are the unpleasant yet familiar symptoms of the flue and can really make you feel unwell.

Unfortunately colds and flu are highly infectious illnesses and are spread rapidly from people to people who are already carrying the virus, causing many people to become ill at the same time. 10-15% of the population develop flu each year.

100,000 flu particles can be projected into the air with just one sneeze and, travelling at 80 miles per hour, can reach distances of up to 30 feet away.

The government has launched a campaign to maximise the number of over 65's who are vaccinated against flu as they are particularly at risk from flu which can lead to more serious illnesses, including bronchitis or peneumonia.

The jab is available from your local GP and is free to vulnerable groups, such as the elderly; however, last year 30% of over 65's did not have a jab.

Here are some tips to help you avoid the flu:

Wash your hands often. You can pick up cold germs easily, even when shaking someone's hand or touching doorknobs or handrails
If you sneeze or cough, do it into a tissue and then throw the tissue away.
Clean surfaces you touch with a germ-killing disinfectant
Germs can easily enter your body through the nose, eyes or mouth - so keep your hands away!

At risk groups need to get a flu jab every year, as the flu virus is constantly changing. Please contact your GP for further information.

Our Go For It Features:

Go to the news archive.