Free Flu Jabs
A fever, shivering and aching body are all symptoms of the flu. Catching the bug can make you feel miserable and force you to take time of work but for some it can be a killer
If you're 65 or over you're entitled to a free jab and simply have to make a quick appointment at your G.P surgery to get it. You're also entitled to a free flu jab if you have asthma, diabetes, chronic respiratory heart, renal or liver disease or suffer from a weak immune system.
The president of the Scottish Pensions Association John Wilson is urging older people to make an appointment at their G.P surgery. But it isn't just pensioners who are at risk.
Younger people with asthma, diabetes, chronic respiratory, heart, renal and liver disease or those who have a weak immune system should also take advantage of a free vaccination
If you get flu?
Flu is a virus, so antibiotics wont help. Take painkillers like paracetamol or aspirin to relieve headache and muscle pains, and to reduce your temperature. Remember: read all labels, and do not take more than the recommended dose of any medicine, e.g. paracetamol is in a number of different flu remedies, as well as standard paracetamol tablets.
Speak to your pharmacist if you intend to take more than one form of medication to relieve your flu. Do not give aspirin to children under 16 years of age unless instructed to do so by a doctor.
If you live alone, tell a friend or neighbour you are ill, so they can check on you, and help with essential shopping.
The best way to help yourself is to:
Stay home, keep warm and rest this will help you recover more quickly in the long run
Drink plenty of non-alcoholic liquids to replace the fluid lost in sweating
Eat what you can
Try to avoid mixing with other people until you have recovered
Remember that other people may be more vulnerable to flu infection than you are
Should I contact my doctor?
There is usually no need to contact your doctor. Your pharmacist will provide advice and recommend appropriate treatment.
If, however, you are frail or elderly, you are at greater risk from flu, and should consult your doctor if concerned.
All flu sufferers should consult their doctor if:
Your temperature doesnt settle after four or five days
Your symptoms get worse
You start to cough up dirty spit
You think you are seriously ill
You develop chest pain, or become short of breath
You could discuss your symptoms with your GP by phone, rather
than making an appointment.
Keep an eye out for your neighbours - especially if they are elderlyIf you know there is flu around, look out for signs that a neighbour may be ill:
They may not be going about their normal activities
Mail, milk or newspapers may not have been taken into the house for a day or two
Curtains, normally opened, may be left closed during the daytime
Offer to make drinks or do the shopping if they live alone, or you think they may struggle to cope.
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