Richmond and Twickenham Primary Care Trust is calling on residents to remember to get their flu jab if they don't want to run the risk of infection this winter season.N

For some people, a bout of flu can result in serious conditions, hospitalisation or even death. Flu is not just a cold. It gives you fevers, chills, extreme fatigue and aching muscles, as well as the more cold-like symptoms of sore throats and runny noses, and tends to last for up to two weeks.

Flu is particularly dangerous for anyone with asthma, diabetes, a chronic heart, chest or kidney condition or any other serious illness, as well as for all people aged 65 or over. Local residents who are at risk from flu are being urged to visit their local GP's surgery to claim their free flu jab.

You are at risk if:

• You are aged 65 or over
• You have a serious illness, including: chronic heart or respiratory conditions (including asthma), kidney disease, diabetes or lowered immunity due to HIV, steroid medication or cancer treatment
• You live in a long-stay residential or nursing home

The vaccination is your only protection against flu.

To book an appointment for your flu jab, contact your GP or practice nurse, or to find out more, call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or go to www.immunisation.nhs.uk. If you do fall ill over Christmas, remember that there are lots of sources as well as your GP; call NHS Direct, speak to your local pharmacist or go to an NHS walk-in centre.

You can find more information online

Monday, December 20, 2004

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