flu Season

If you are looking for information on Flu (Influenza), it’s likely that you (or the person you are caring for) are feeling pretty unwell, more so than if you had a common cough or cold.

Many viruses cause a Flu-like illness. Symptoms can present in many forms including a high temperature, sweats, dry cough, sore throat and sneezing to name a few.

Click here to learn more about the symptoms of Flu.

Video support

You may be wondering if you should be vaccinated against Flu. Watch the following video by our very own GP, Dr Kletta to learn more.

 

Watch a video from the NHS here on why it is so important to have your child vaccinated each year against Flu.

How do I catch Flu?

It’s easier than you may think to catch Flu. Patient.info outlines here how easily bugs can be passed on.

Do I need antibiotics?

Generally antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and not viruses (such as Flu), therefore you would not generally be prescribed antibiotics if you have Flu.

Do I need to see my GP?

Generally you don’t need to see your GP if you have the Flu.

You can do lots to treat yourself at home, such as keeping hydrated at all times and using over the counter pain relief to ease symptoms. This teamed with lots of rest, in many cases, should have you feeling much better within a week. Read more here.

You may only need to see a GP if you are more vulnerable. Read more here as to whether you need to see your GP.

Things to remember

Having Flu is different to having a cough or cold.

Generally you can do lots to treat yourself at home without seeing the GP.

You may need to see a GP if you fall within the category of being more vulnerable. Find out more here

Word from our GP

  Try to stay at home if you can to prevent passing on the infection. You can ease your aches and pains and lower your temperature by taking Paracetamol and/or Ibuprofen. Also, remember to drink lots of fluids!

Dr Jerome Donagh, Oak Tree Surgery