Advice to help you stay safe during flu season

Cases of flu are on the rise in Scotland with this winter’s early outbreak seeing higher numbers of people than usual admitted to hospital.

For older people, and those with long-term health conditions, flu can hit particularly hard. Anyone eligible for the flu vaccine – including all over 65s – and who hasn’t already had it, is urged to do so as soon as possible. New research from Public Health Scotland shows that vaccinated adults over 65 are 37% less likely to be hospitalised with the illness.

NHS Inform has a list of good hygiene tips to prevent the spread of flu. They will help you avoid catching it or spreading it to others:

• wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water
• clean surfaces like your computer keyboard, telephone and door handles regularly
• use tissues to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
• bin used tissues as soon as possible
• avoid unnecessary contact with other people while you’re infectious
• stay off work or school until you’re feeling better

 If you do catch flu, NHS Inform also has advice that can help you recover more quickly:

• rest
• get plenty of sleep
• keep warm
• drink lots of water to avoid dehydration
• take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower your temperature and treat aches and pains
• stay off work or school until you feel better

And what to avoid doing:

• do not take paracetamol and flu remedies that contain paracetamol at the same time

For advice on staying warm at home this winter you can read or order a copy of our Warm and Well guide