Why should we worry about the flu

By Dr Julie Taylor

DR JULIE TAYLOR IS A GP PARTNER AT THE ORCHARD PRACTICE DARTFORD, CLINICAL DIRECTOR OF DARTFORD MODEL PCN AND A BOARD MEMBER OF THE DARTFORD, SWANLEY AND GRAVESHAM INTEGRATED CARE PARTNERSHIP.

Flu is a common viral infection that is spread by coughs and sneezes. You can catch flu all year around, although it is much more common in the winter. Like many viruses, flu will often get better on its own within about a week. But it can make some people seriously ill. Flu is not the same as the common cold. Symptoms come on very quickly, tend to be more severe and last longer. They include: - a high temperature of 38 o C (100.4 o F) or above - general aches and pains - tiredness or weakness – enough that you have to stay in bed and rest - a dry cough, sore throat or headache

When we are exposed to flu, we develop some immunity to it. The flu strains change slightly each year, but this still offers some protection. Flu levels were so low last year because of the infection control measures implemented to stop the spread of COVID, therefore immunity to flu has waned.

This means that there are more people susceptible to flu this season and scientists are predicting more cases. We are particularly concerned about those at high risk of complications from flu. If you catch flu, to help you get better it is important that you rest and drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. You can take paracetamol or ibuprofen to help with your symptoms. If you are fit and well, you do not need to speak to your GP. Antibiotics do not help with flu as they are ineffective against viral infections. Flu is very infective and is spread via coughs and sneezes. Stay at home until you are feeling better. Use tissues and dispose of them correctly and wash your hands correctly.

Consider speaking to your GP if you are in one of the high risk groups, if your symptoms are getting worse over time or haven’t improved in a week. If you develop chest pain, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing or start coughing up blood you must seek medical advice.

Who is at risk from complications of flu? Certain people are at high risk of complications of flu, either because of their immune system or because it can worsen underlying conditions. Elderly are more vulnerable as their immune system is not as good at recognising and responding to infection. In people with lung conditions such as asthma or COPD, getting flu can make their condition worse. If you have diabetes, flu can affect blood sugar levels causing hyperglycaemia. Flu in pregnancy can cause early labour and may occasionally result in a miscarriage or stillbirth.

The flu vaccination is safe and effective and is offered on the NHS every year to help people at risk of complications from flu. You can get this through your GP surgery or community pharmacy. Some GP surgeries may offer you a COVID booster at the same time. It is perfectly safe to have both together, but please do not delay having your flu or COVID vaccine if you are offered either one first.

The flu vaccine is free on the NHS for the following people who are considered to be at high risk of complications: - Aged 50 or over by 31.3.22 - Aged under 50 and have certain health conditions (eg diabetes, respiratory or heart problems) - Are pregnant - Are in a long-stay residential care home - Receive a carers allowance or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if they become sick - Live with someone who is more likely to get infections (eg who has HIV, has had a transplant or is having certain treatment for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis) - Frontline health and social care workers

Community pharmacies may offer a flu vaccine that you can pay for, if you don’t fit into one of these groups.

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