Flu can strike suddenly, leaving you feeling weak, feverish, and unable to go about your daily routine. During the cold and flu season, many people in the UK suffer from severe flu symptoms, leading to missed work, school, and social activities.
For some, especially older adults, young children, and those with health conditions, flu can result in serious complications. The best way to stay protected is by recognising the symptoms early and taking the right precautions, including getting a flu vaccination. Here’s what you need to know to safeguard your health this flu season.
What are the Common Symptoms of Flu?
Flu symptoms can come on suddenly and are often more severe than the common cold. Some key signs to look out for include:
- High temperature (fever) – Usually above 38°C.
- Chills and sweating – Feeling very cold and then suddenly hot.
- Cough – A dry or chesty cough that can linger.
- Sore throat – Pain or discomfort, often making it hard to swallow.
- Runny or blocked nose – Similar to a cold but usually with other flu symptoms.
- Body aches and muscle pain – Feeling weak, sore, and tired.
- Extreme fatigue – Feeling exhausted and unable to do normal activities.
- Headache – A strong, persistent headache.
- Loss of appetite – Not feeling hungry or wanting to eat much.
Some people, particularly children, may also experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea. If you or someone in your family has these symptoms, it’s best to rest, stay hydrated, and avoid contact with others to prevent spreading the virus.
How to Protect Yourself from Seasonal Flu
Flu spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, and touching contaminated surfaces. Here are some simple ways to reduce your risk during the flu season:
Get a Flu Vaccination
The best way to protect yourself from the flu is to get a flu vaccine. The NHS flu vaccination is available for certain groups, including those aged 65 and over, pregnant women, and people with health conditions like asthma or diabetes. If you’re eligible, you should book a flu vaccine as soon as possible. Even if you’re not in a high-risk group, getting vaccinated can still reduce your chances of getting seriously ill.
Practice Good Hygiene
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use hand sanitiser if soap and water aren’t available.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, then bin it immediately.
- Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Boost Your Immune System
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Get enough sleep to help your body recover and fight infections.
- Stay active with regular exercise to keep your immune system strong.
Avoid Contact with Sick People
If you know someone has the flu, try to avoid close contact with them until they recover. If you’re unwell, it’s best to stay at home to prevent spreading the virus to others.
Stay One Step Ahead – Book Your Flu Vaccine Today!
Flu can leave you feeling weak, feverish, and unable to carry out daily tasks. It spreads easily, especially during the cold and flu season, putting vulnerable groups at risk of serious complications. Recognising symptoms early and taking precautions, like good hygiene and getting a flu vaccination, can help protect you.
Don’t wait until symptoms strike—book your flu vaccine today. We, at Touchwood Pharmacy, offer convenient flu vaccinations to help keep you safe during the influenza flu season.
