Body Talk - 4th November

It's that time of year again when coughs and colds are abundant.

Charlotte Rose, Physician in Charge for Bupa Wellness at Spire Hartswood joined me this evening to talk about the flu virus.

Flu isn't just a bad cold, it is a serious condition that can lay you low for days even weeks, if caught by the sick or elderly it can be life threatening.

Prevention is better than cure, so remember the basic good health rules of healthy diet and exercise. If you are in a vulnerable age group or are already suffering with a serious health condition, it is advisable to get vaccinated. If you are under pressure at work and can't afford to take time off for illness, you might also be able to be vaccinated.

Charlotte explained that there aren't any side effects, with the exception of allergy to hens eggs as this is in the vaccination mix.

If you are unlucky enough to catch it, then the best advice is to let it run it's course. Antibiotics have no effect and will only be given if it develops into an infection.

Find out more at the Wellness Centre at Spire Hartswood.