Nobody likes getting the runny nose, high fever, headache, and muscle aches – some of the most common flu symptoms.
Seasonal flu is a highly infectious illness caused by the flu virus. The infection in Ireland is more common in winter months because people spend more time in close contact with each other.
The virus spreads by coughing or sneezing. It can also survive on hands, worktops and objects, especially in low temperatures. You can get flu by touching a surface with the virus on it, and then touching your mouth, eyes, or nose.
Other flu symptoms can include:
At Higgins Pharmacy Sligo we are providing Flu Vaccinations from September.
Receiving a flu Vaccine will help to protect yourself for flu season. The vaccine will decrease the risk of contracting the flu, especially if you are at high risk of developing severe flu complications.
The vaccine helps the immune system produce antibodies, allowing them to fight the virus if they come into contact with it.
HSE strongly recommends a flu vaccine if you:
If you’re otherwise healthy, there’s no need to visit your GP if you have flu-like symptoms. If you can, rest at home and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Certain foods, probiotics, and vitamins can boost your immune system to give you that extra protection.
If you are at home with flu or taking care of someone at home follow these tips to help stop the flu spreading;
If necessary, take paracetamol to lower a high temperature and relieve possible aches.
Cold and flu symptoms can be similar; however, a cold is a minor respiratory illness than the flu. While cold symptoms mostly last for a few days, flu symptoms can make you feel sick for a few days to weeks.
The flu can also result in serious health complications.
Colds are caused by viruses, the same as the flu. Remember, antibiotics cannot treat viruses.
Comparing Symtoms of Covid, Flu and Cold
The flu vaccination is available at Higgins Pharmacy Sligo for more in formation. More information or booking is available here.
Have questions? Connect with our highly trained pharmacists online, by phone, or drop into any of our Sligo Pharmacies in Market Cross, or Teeling Street.
Providing a trusted and valued service to Sligo since 1948. The story of Higgins Pharmacy first began almost 70 years ago when Mr. Chris Higgins, originally from Tubbercurry, opened the doors of the Teeling Street pharmacy in Sligo Town in 1948. The Pharmacies on Teeling Street and Market Street have remained family run ever since.
Higgins Pharmacy provide services such as Covid Vaccines, Covid Antigen Testing, Flu Vaccines, Emergency Hormonal Contraception, Passport Photos, Blood Pressure Testing, Cholesterol and Blood Sugar Testing, Vitamin D Testing, Fertility Testing & Blister Packing.