Fight the flu this winter with the help of The Walcote Practice
Are you concerned about catching the flu this winter? If so, The Walcote Practice may be able to help with this year’s seasonal flu vaccine, available to both adults and children.
The flu virus is spread by coughs and sneezes. Symptoms start suddenly and can be severe, including:
- fever of 38C (100.4F) or above
- tiredness and weakness which may last for several weeks
- headache, general aches and pains
- dry, chesty cough
- blocked or runny nose, sneezing, and sore throat
Flu can exhaust you and make you feel very unwell – you may need to stay in bed and rest until you feel better.
For adults, The Walcote Practice currently offers the Sanofi quadrivalent vaccine which protects against four types of flu, including the swine flu. For those aged 65 years and over, we offer the Seqirus trivalent adjuvant vaccine which provides more robust protection against the three most serious strains of flu in this age-group. Each of the above adult flu vaccines costs £15 (there is no consultation fee).
For children aged two years and over we offer the Fluenz nasal spray flu vaccine, which protects against four types of flu, at a cost of £45. Parents who wish to vaccinate children aged between six months and two years are asked to discuss individual cases with Dr Nicholas Hillier.
If otherwise fit and healthy, you may not be eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine. You may, however, still find it useful to receive the flu vaccine privately if you wish to significantly reduce your chances of catching flu, if you work/commute with many people or if you feel you could not afford the time needed to recover.
The flu vaccine is quick to receive. Only one dose is required each winter, ideally before early November however the earlier the better.
To book an appointment to receive the flu vaccine, or for any other health issue, please call 01962 828715. We do hope you manage to stay flu-free this winter.
