General Info on Influenza

Karyn sent us this she got from the health centre.

General information about influenza

What is influenza?
Influenza (the flu) is a highly infectious illness caused by a virus. It is much more serious than a common cold and will leave you ill for up to 10 days.

It may take up to three days to feel symptoms after you catch influenza (incubation period). Symptoms include:
*a high fever
*headache
*muscle aches and pains
*fatigue
*cough
*sore throat

Influenza can be a mild or severe illness depending on the type of flu virus causing it, and the age and general health of the person affected. Anyone can get influenza – being fit active and healthy does not protect you from getting the virus.

How do you care for yourself and your family during an influenza pandemic?

*stay at home if you are sick and keep away from other people – avoid visitors and visiting other people
*Wash and dry your hands after you cough, sneeze, wipe or blow your nose ( or your childs nose), use the bathroom or toilet. Wash and dry your hands before you prepare food and eat, and when you are looking after sick people.
* keep coughs and sneezes covered. Tissues are best. Put the tissue in a rubbish bin.
*Give people who have a fever and/or diarrhoea plenty to drink.
*Give paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever. Do not give aspirin to children under 16.
*try to keep well people and sick people apart.
*Make sure sick people get plenty of rest.

Have a plan for a pandemic
Make a plan with family and friends, which includes:
*Who could help with food and supplies if you
and your household are sick
*The telephone numbers of people who live near
you, as well as your doctor’s ph number.

If you have prescription medicines (eg for blood pressure), renew your prescription well before you run out.

Build up your emergency supplies.

Have a supply of food and drinks to last for at least a week.

Paracetamol and ibuprofen are good for bringing down a fever and reducing aches and pains.

Masks worn by sick people can stop the spread of germs. You can buy masks from the pharmacy.

Have tissues or toilet paper and plastic bags. Supermarket bags are good to put used tissues into.

Think about things to do if your family have to stay home for a couple of weeks. Books, games and videos.


If you feel unwell and have questions please phone the doctors surgery or healthline for advice.


Doctors Surgery phone 06 8587767

Healthline phone 0800611116