Infection Control: Flu
Last updated 31 December 2010
Influenza, or 'flu', is a highly contagious acute viral infection that affects people of all ages. It typically starts suddenly with fever, chills, headache, aching muscles, extreme fatigue and a cough or other breathing difficulties.
While most people recover without complications in 1-2 weeks, flu can cause serious illness and death, especially in the very young and the elderly.
Flu epidemics occur mainly in the winter months and can result in widespread disruption to healthcare and other services. A vaccine is produced every year based on the strains of virus expected to be circulating.
We would remind people that they should have the seasonal flu vaccination if they are either:
- aged 65 years or over
- pregnant
- living in a residential or nursing home
- or the main carer for an older or disabled person
People in at risk groups should have been contacted by their GP.
The Trust very much supports the Department of Health's Catch it, Bin it, Kill it! adverts which urge people to cover coughs and sneezes with tissues, throw them away and wash their hands.
Click the links below for the latest official advice to help protect yourself, your family and others. And also if you have flu-like symptoms and are concerned that you may have swine flu.
Visit www.nhs.uk/flu
Read up on swine flu symptoms at www.nhs.uk.
Information on flu and how the NHS is coping is updated every Friday morning at www.dh.gov.uk/winterwatch
