Flu

Most people will have had the 'flu at some point. It is a very unpleasant experience but most people recover. Some may develop other complications like a chest infection.


	Symptoms
	fever sweats sore throat sneezing dry cough achy muscles headache vomiting

	Treatment
	All you can really do is get plenty of rest. Your immune system will do most of the hard work for you. However, some symptoms can get in the way of resting so use painkillers if necessary. It is also important to keep your fluid levels up so drink plenty of water. If you suspect your 'flu might be getting worse instead of better, your doctor may be able to prescribe some antibiotics.

	Prevention
	There is an immunisation for 'flu but this is not available to everyone. It is mostly reserved for: people over 65 people with diabetes people with lung disease

	Seek medical advice
	Seek advice from your healthcare professional if... symptoms fail to improve after a week

	Recommended web sites
	Preventing 'Flu An information leaflet about the 'flu from Patient UK Preventing 'Flu Some questions about the 'flu vaccine answered by the Department of Health