Page updated: 20 Dec 2010
Trafford residents encouraged to protect themselves against flu
As cases of swine flu rise across the country, Trafford residents are being encouraged to protect themselves against flu.
People who are aged over 65, those with existing health conditions which could be worsened by flu, carers, and healthy pregnant women, are all eligible for this year’s seasonal flu vaccine, and they are being urged to get it.
GP surgeries have been calling up eligible people since September, but not everyone has come forward to get the vaccine.
“The vaccine protects against H1N1, or swine flu, as well as two other strains of the virus which are in circulation this year,” said Martin Samangaya, a nurse and NHS Trafford’s immunisation co-ordinator. “Getting the jab will stop you from catching flu because your body will build up antibodies against it.
“The flu vaccine cannot give you flu as it contains an inactivated, or dead, form of the virus. The jab gives your body the chance to learn about the virus and how to defeat it without putting you at risk of catching flu. This means that, if you encounter the virus later on, your body can fight it off before it makes you ill.”
For people who have existing illnesses, are pregnant, or are elderly, the vaccine will ensure their safety against the virus.
However, those who aren’t eligible for the vaccine can still protect themselves. “Make sure you wash your hands often, especially after coughing or sneezing. To avoid the spread of germs always try to cough or sneeze into a tissue and throw it away immediately. If you sneeze or cough into your hands or elbow wash your hands straight away. These simple steps not only help prevent the virus spreading but also lessen the chances of you getting flu.”
If you think you have flu, you should make sure you stay inside, stay warm, and drink plenty of fluids. Flu will last for around five days, but if you feel you aren’t getting any better, you should telephone your GP surgery for advice. They may ask you to come in for an appointment, or they might give you advice on how to care for yourself at home.
Do not visit A&E with flu-like symptoms – you risk passing the virus on to people who are vulnerable. Likewise, if you feel unwell, you shouldn’t visit friends or relatives in hospital.
“Flu is a nasty virus and it can be very unpleasant,” added Martin. “However, it can be avoided by getting the vaccine and being hygienic. In doing this, you can protect not only yourself, but others around you, too.”
If you are eligible for the vaccine, contact your GP surgery to make an appointment to get the injection.
The eligible groups include people with:
- Respiratory disease
- Neurological disease
- Immunosuppression
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- People who are pregnant
- Those aged 65 and over