Stay away from A&E if you get flu this winter, urges QA doctor

Vulnerable people are being encouraged to get their flu vaccinations as Public Health England launches its Stay Well This Winter campaign.

Consultant cardiologist at Queen Alexandra Hospital Dr Ali Dana said the best treatment for people with the flu is lots of liquids and bed rest.

He has warned people should not be tempted to go to A&E and risk spreading the virus.

Dr Dana said: ‘If you are not considered a vulnerable member of society and your flu becomes a serious illness it is good to see a GP but I would suggest people avoid A&E at all costs.

‘Getting the flu is not an accident or an emergency so there’s no need to overburden an already overburdened A&E department.

‘There is no treatment for the flu. It is a virus and the treatment is bed rest and lots of liquids.’

As part of its campaign, Public Health England is advising all children aged two to 11 get vaccinations as well as pregnant women, those aged 65 years and over and those in long-stay residential care homes.

Dr Dana added: ‘For some groups, the flu can become a major illness. I would encourage people considered vulnerable members to get their vaccinations ahead of the winter months.’

Public Health England held a roadshow at Cascades Shopping Centre in Commercial Road, Portsmouth, to give tips on how to stay well.

A nurse was at the stall to give out information and leaflets were also available to take away.

Kate Lees, public health consultant at Portsmouth City Council: ‘We know that colder weather can bring health issues, particularly for older or more vulnerable residents in the city, and so we’re pleased the Stay Well This Winter roadshow came to Portsmouth.

‘They provided key advice on how people can keep themselves well, such as getting the flu vaccination and seeking help at the first signs of illness, before it gets chance to develop into something more serious.’

For more information on how to stay well over winter visit www.nhs.uk/staywell.