Flu warning: The ‘only way’ to protect against the deadly flu virus - Dr Chris reveals
FLU virus symptoms include a runny nose, a sore throat and extreme tiredness. There’s only one way to protect against the deadly virus this year, warns ITV This Morning’s Dr Chris Steele.
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Flu is a common infectious virus that usually strikes during the winter months.
Flu symptoms include a sudden fever, aching body and a headache, said the NHS.
The virus can be very dangerous, and it’s crucial to avoid becoming infected with flu - it can be deadly.
But, there’s only one way to truly protect against the flu virus, warned ITV This Morning’s Dr Chris Steele - the flu jab.
The flu vaccine that’s the only way you can defend yourself against the flu
The flu vaccine is the only try way to prevent flu infection, said Dr Chris.
The This Morning doctor received his flu jab live on air, as he revealed the flu virus is highly infectious, and can be killer.
The vaccine begins to work within 10 to 14 days, and all over 65s, pregnant women, children, and people with weakened immune systems should get the flu jab, he said.
“The flu vaccine, that’s the only way you can defend yourself against the flu,” said Dr Chris.
“It’s highly infectious. It kills - there’s been huge epidemics around the world, and even pandemics.
“This is the first year we’ve got different vaccines for different groups of people.
“In the past we’ve had the flu vaccine that’s contained three strains of flu.
“Us over 65s have a weakened immune system, so we need as much help as we can get.”
The flu jab for people over the age of 65 is “a turbocharged, enhanced flu vaccine”, he added.
But, there’s likely to be a long waiting list for the new flu vaccine, so speak to your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible, he urged.
The flu jab reduces the risk of catching the virus, as well as spreading it to others, said the NHS.
The best time to get the vaccine is before the start of the flu season - between December and March.
Certain groups are eligible to get the flu jab free of charge.
These include people over 65 years old, pregnant women, those with chronic medical conditions, and people living in a long-stay residential care home.
If you become infected with flu, the best thing to do is to rest, keep warm, and take painkillers, added the NHS.
Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. You can check whether you're dehydrated by looking at your urine - it should be a light yellow or clear colour.