Flu (influenza) is an infectious respiratory disease caused by a virus.
Symptoms
Symptoms can include; a sudden fever, headache, aches, sore throat and a dry chesty cough.
How do you catch Influenza?
Flu is spread by coughs, sneezes and contact with those who already have the disease
Incubation period
1 to 4 days
Diagnosis
Based on the symptoms. Usually self-diagnosed by the person who has the infection.
Prevention
Use a tissue to catch germs when coughing/sneezing, bin used tissues as quickly as possible and wash hands often with warm water and soap. A vaccine is available annually which helps reduce the risk of catching flu. This is available through the NHS to people in certain risk groups. It is also available privately through The Valley Pharmacy
Treatment
No specific treatment is available for flu, remedies are available from a pharmacist to help relieve symptoms. Anti-virals may be prescribed for people in high-risk groups if needed.
