YOUR HEALTH
with Dr. Thakkar
DON’T GO DOWN UNDER WITH FLU
Australian flu is set to hit the UK very soon. There are many strains
of flu, and this one, also referred to as H3N2, is particularly potent.
So, what is flu? It’s a viral infection which
means traditional antibiotics will not
work. Hospital admissions have already
tripled in the UK due to other circulating
flu-like illnesses and the NHS is under
severe pressure. Symptoms include
fever, headache, muscle aches, sore
throat, cough and extreme malaise.
Complications of flu can be severe,
particularly in those who are susceptible.
These complications include dehydration,
falls, confusion, pneumonia and even
death. Those most at risk include the
young and old, frail patients, those on
steroids and people with other medical
problems such as diabetes, heart and lung
disorders.
What can be done to reduce the
risk of developing flu and indeed
spreading it?
Vaccination is still the best form of
defence. Whilst no vaccination is 100%
effective as viruses mutate all the time,
it’s the best option we have. If you are
eligible, and you haven’t had your jab,
it’s essential you see your GP. Also, some
people are entitled to a once in a lifetime
pneumonia jab too. People over the age
of 65, pregnant women and patients with
certain health conditions including asthma,
COPD, diabetes and heart disease will be
entitled to a free flu jab. Many outlets offer
the flu jab to those who aren’t eligible on
the NHS for a small fee.
If you have flu, avoiding spread to others
in the community by isolating yourself
and adopting good hygiene measures
is sensible. Ensuring you drink plenty
of fluids will reduce the risk of falls and
kidney damage. Most people will recover
from flu on their own, although a minority
will require medical advice and help.
Be prepared in order to protect yourself,
the community and the NHS is the
message here. If you are concerned
look online or speak to a health care
professional.
For more information on symptoms and conditions, go to NHS Choices
(www.nhs.uk).
You can also get advice on over-the-counter treatments from your
pharmacist; if symptoms persist or are severe, however, you can call NHS
111 for guidance on the best healthcare option for you.
Dr. Thakkar is a
Buckinghamshire based GP
Chiltern Clinical Commissioning Group
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