Spotlight Magazines Spotlight Magazine Mansfield North October 2015 | Page 18

Spotlight Magazine Do I Need A Flue Jab? Most of us know by now that certain groups of people should visit the GP for a flu jab: the elderly, diabetics, asthmatics etc. But pharmacists will tell you that even if you don’t fall into one of the categories above a flu jab is still a sensible precaution. But why would a healthy person request a flu vaccine? Well, seasonal flu is a deeply unpleasant illness. It generally requires a week or so off work to recover and can trigger other conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia. The average person with flu infects one or two other people through sneezing, coughing and touch. If you work with the general public, in a shop for example, you are more at risk of being exposed to the virus so you might consider a flu jab a worthwhile investment. A business owner may consider the impact a week off sick would have on his business 18 and opt to protect himself or herself for that reason. Children are much more likely to pick up and pass on bugs as they are in such close proximity to each other all day. For this reason teachers and parents might think it wise to have a jab. Unless you fall into one of the at-risk categories you will have to be vaccinated, but it’s inexpensive (generally under £15) and many pharmacists administer the vaccine on their premises so you won’t have to book an appointment with your GP or take time off work. Flu jabs are generally safe unless you have an allergy to eggs or have had a previous allergic reaction to a shot. So discuss protecting yourself with your pharmacist today. By Sarah Davey www.spotlightlocal.co.uk • 01623 706570 • [email protected]