Flu

Influenza, or 'flu', is a very contagious acute viral infection that affects people of all ages, but can be more serious for pregnant women, very young children, and older people. It can also have more severe health impacts for people that have existing severe or long-term medical conditions.

Flu outbreaks often occur during the winter each year, which is why the illness is sometimes referred to as seasonal flu.

Symptoms

Flu symptoms hit you suddenly and sometimes severely. They usually include fever, chills, headaches and aching muscles, and you can often get a cough and sore throat at the same time. Flu is caused by viruses and not bacteria, so antibiotics won't treat it.

Could it be coronavirus?

If you have a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste it could be coronavirus. If you have any of these symptoms follow the latest guidance. 

Flu vaccine

The best prevention against flu is the flu vaccine. Over time flu viruses can mutate so a new vaccine is produced every year based on the strains of virus expected to be circulating. The NHS advises that you ask your GP about having a free flu vaccination if:

• you're 65 or over
• you're pregnant
• you have certain health conditions
• you live in a residential or nursing home 
• you're the main carer for an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if you fall ill 
• you or your child (over six months) is in a risk group
• you live with someone who's at high risk from coronavirus

People with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are also more at risk of ill-health and hospitalisation during periods of cold weather and are more susceptible to illness from high levels of circulating respiratory infections, including flu. 

You can find more information and advice about the flu vaccine on the NHS website.

Keep warm, keep well

With some simple precautions, most people can be prepared for the cold weather and prevent much of the misery often associated with winter weather. Our Cold Weather Alerts inform you when cold weather, snow or ice has been forecast to help you stay one step ahead of the weather.

The Met Office hostd the WeatherReady web pages on behalf of HM Government and partners. These pages give some suggestions about the practical things that you and your community can do to prepare for a wide range of winter weather, including cold, ice and snow, high winds and flooding. The pages include a Health and well-being section that offers advice on steps to take to keep warm and well this winter.