Controlling the Spread of Colds and Flu

Cold and flu viruses can spread easily, so you need to take care to help stop you and your family from getting ill. Colds and flu can be serious for some people. They can lead to complications like bronchitis and pneumonia, and are particularly hazardous for at-risk groups such as young children, those with chronic lung diseases and the elderly.

The good news is that there are some simple steps that you can take to help protect yourself from colds and flu, and stop the germs spreading.

• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water.
• Use an alcohol-based hand santiser to destroy the germs on your hands when soap and water are not available.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly, especially the surfaces that people often touch with their hands (e.g. handles, taps, work surfaces).
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Put your used tissues in a bin and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
• It is advisable that those at high risk for flu complications contact their GP about flu vaccination

Who is at Most Risk?

Anyone can get flu, but there are certain groups of people who are at more risk of developing serious complications. These include:

• Adults age 65 and older
• Pregnant women
• Those with a chronic or existing medical condition such as:
  • severe asthma, lung disease or bronchitis
  • chronic heart, liver or kidney disease
  • chronic neurological disease, such as Parkinson’s disease
  • diabetes
  • a weakened or suppressed immune system (e.g. due to HIV/AIDS or cancer treatment).

If you or someone you care for is in one of these risk groups, talk to your GP about getting an annual flu vaccination programme.