Brits are taking it into their own hands to reduce the risk of flu
One in ten Britons are taking their own steps to reduce their risk of catching the flu, according to new research.
According to the results of a new study, one in ten Britons claim that they have or intend to purchase flu prevention medication to keep at home this year should symptoms of influenza set in; as opposed to turning to the NHS for treatment.
When asked why, the majority cited fearing ‘delayed treatment’ or ‘not being taken seriously’ by their GP.
Whilst the majority of respondents said they would be getting a 'flu vaccination' from their GP, 9% also admitted that they had purchased their own flu-prevention medication without a GP prescription; such as Tamiflu.
Sarah Bailey of UKMedix.com, who coducted the research, commented on the results: “We’ve seen a high volume of traffic on our site specifically related to Tamiflu searches over the past two weeks, seeming to suggest that many are indeed looking to self-medicate as opposed to getting a prescription from their GP. Whilst you can obtain flu treatments yourself, it is recommended that you always visit your GP for a diagnosis first. Your symptoms have to be correctly diagnosed in order to be treated correctly, and whilst many may think they cannot visit or speak to their GP for severe flu-like symptoms, this is simply not the case. Always check with them first and speak to a GP on the phone should you not want to visit in person- that way you can be sure you’re obtaining the right medication as treatment.”
Professor John Oxford, the UK’s leading flu expert, offers top tips on how to avoid succumbing to illness and how to get rid of symptoms, fast.
Hand horrors
Did you know that you’ve battled through a myriad of potential colds and flu before you’ve even arrived at a party? Professor Oxford explains: “Dirty hand rails, overused chip and pin machines and coins are all known to hold huge amounts of germs. Some infections can be transmitted to our hands by physical contact and enter the body when we touch vulnerable areas such as our nose or mouth.” Keep a hand sanitizer in your bag and use it regularly to minimise the risk of illness.
Wrap up warm
Invest in a gorgeous coat to throw on over your party dresses to avoid catching chills in the evening air. “Did you know that shivering makes our immune system less effective, putting us at greater risk of catching colds?” asks Professor Oxford? “The lack of sunlight affects our melatonin levels are, meaning our immune systems are less effective during the winter months”.
Sleep tight
“If you can feel yourself getting ill, the best thing to do is rest” advises Professor Oxford. “When we sleep our bodies are working to repair themselves and fight off infections, so this time is crucial to recovery”.
Fever pitch
“If you’re suffering and need relief from cold and flu symptoms, it’s important to take some medication” advises Professor Oxford. “cold and flu remedies that contain ibuprofen can lower a temperature and ease headaches, body aches and pains, whilst a decongestant can provide effective relief from nasal congestion.”
The brand new Nurofen Cold and Flu range contains ibuprofen and provides relief for up to eight hours.
Tagged in Health cold and flu