As most people know colds and flu spread easily by coughs and sneezes so simple hygiene measures such as covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough/sneeze and washing your hands with soap and water can help reduce the risk of it spreading.

Seasonal Flu

 Over the past few years, you may have heard a lot about different sorts of flu virus, swine flu and the available vaccinations.  To make sure that you know the facts from the myths, please read the infomation below.

• For the fit and healthy, you may only get mild symptoms.
• If you have a long term health problem, it can make it worse
• it can lead to serious illness' such as bronchitis and pneumonia and even a hospital stay.
• Every year people die from the flu.

• It will help your body make antibodies to protect you from the flu.
• it will NOT give you the flu as it doesn't contain a live virus.
• New vaccines are produced every year as the viruses change.
• The 2011 Vaccine will protect against the same 3 strands of Flu as last year.
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• When do I get the vaccination?
• The seasonal flu vaccination is FREE for those who are over 65 years old or have a long term condition - click here to see if you are eligible.
• If you care for an elderly or disabled person then you should have the vaccine to protect those you look after.
• It is generally available from October onwards and GP practices have been asked to invite every patient who is eligible for their vaccination.