Influenza (flu) is one of the most common illnesses in the UK, and with the flu season just around the corner, it’s important to ensure that you are protected.
Flu can have several different symptoms, and it is more dangerous for vulnerable groups such as children and older people. The symptoms include;
- A sudden fever – a temperature of 38C or higher
- Aches
- Diarrhoea or stomach pains
- A sore throat
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Sleeping problems
- A dry cough
- A loss of appetite
- Feeling sick and vomiting
- Tiredness or exhaustion
Children can also experience ear pain, as well as appearing to be lethargic or inactive.
Avoiding spreading the flu
Flu is infectious and is easily spread, which can happen through coughs and sneezes. The germs can live on surfaces and hands for 24 hours, which means you may need to take action to avoid the risk of spreading or contracting the flu. You should;
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water
- Use tissues when coughing or sneezing
- Put used tissues in the bin immediately
Why do I need a flu vaccine every year?
Flu viruses are constantly changing, which means that the formulation of the vaccine has to be reviewed and updated each year to keep pace with changing flu strains. In addition to this, your body’s immune response declines over time, so an annual flu jab is required to ensure that you are protected effectively.
Staying protected with Harrow Health Care
The flu vaccine ensures that you are protected, which is particularly important for vulnerable groups such as older people, children, pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions.
The Harrow Health Care Centre provides a fast and convenient flu vaccination clinic for children and adults. With same-day and next-day appointments available, our doctors are here to keep you and your family fit and healthy.
There are three vaccines available at Harrow Health Care this year:
- Flucelvax: A four strain Cell based vaccine. This is the vaccine we will be recommending for most adults (and children over 9 years old who are unable to receive the nasal flu vaccine). This is not a standard egg-grown influenza vaccine. It was used in the US and Canada in the previous flu season where it was also found to be effective in those over 65 years – £30.00
- Fluenz tetra: A four strain nasal vaccine for Children age 2-17. The advantage to this nasal vaccine is that it stimulates antibodies in the nasal passages and the lining of the airways which is unique to the nasal flu vaccine. It is therefore more successful at preventing flu in this age group and is the most effective flu vaccine for children this age – £42.00
- Quadrivalent vaccine: A four strain injection for children from 6 months of age for whom the nasal influenza vaccine is not suitable – £30.00
Contact us today to book your appointment.