Seasonal flu health advice
Taking proper measures to minimise the spread of the flu virus is essential in promoting good health. Because there is currently no flu pandemic, this guidance relates to the usual situation in which people are at risk of contracting normal ("seasonal") flu. In the event of pandemic flu, updated advice about symptoms and when to seek professional medical advice will be published.
Simple steps to minimise the spread of seasonal flu
Below are some simple measures that should be adopted now as they will
help to guard against the spread of seasonal flu and colds. The first
five measures should be standard practice at all times.
Further details are also provided on the symptoms of flu, as well as guidance on when to contact a doctor.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the
spread of the virus from your hands to your face, or to other people.
Those who, are at special risk from flu, for example because of certain
medical conditions, are immunocompromised or they are over 65 years of
age, should liaise with their doctors before the flu season to discuss
the need for flu vaccination and whether prophylactic antiviral
medication would be warranted in the event that they are in contact
with someone with flu like symtoms. Antiviral medications are not
indicated, as prophyaxis, for healthy adults under 65 years of age.
- Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and use a tissue. Whenever possible, wash your hands afterwards.
- Dispose of dirty tissues promptly and carefully - bag and bin them.
- Clean hard surfaces (e.g. kitchen worktops and door handles) frequently with detergent.
- Do not share unwashed cutlery or cups.
- Avoid non-essential travel and crowds at times of higher risk.
Symptoms of normal ("seasonal") flu, and further advice
The symptoms and signs of flu usually include the following:
- a temperature over 38 degrees centigrade - forehead thermometers are easily purchased from local pharmacies, and cost around £3
- a dry cough
- aching limbs/joints
-
- headaches
If you are suffering from these symptoms or signs of flu, you should:
- stay at home/in your room and rest
- contact your
doctor as early as practicable as antiviral medication is generally
recommended for those who can start treatment within 48 hours of the
onset of symptoms
- drink plenty of fluids
- take cold/flu medicines to relieve the symptoms
- let a friend or colleague know you are unwell
Complications of flu can include bacterial pneumonia, ear and sinus
infections, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions,
such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes. If you have the
following warning signs, or other specific concerns, you should phone
your doctor's surgery or contact your college doctor or nurse:
- getting worse after seeming to get better
- no improvement and temperature not coming down after 4 days
- severe or increasing breathlessness or difficulty breathing
- drowsiness or confusion
- coughing up blood
