These symptoms are usually accompanied by a dry cough and sore throat. Influenza is highly infectious and spreads rapidly. You are most likely to catch it during the cold months between October and March. Disease Persons whose immune system is suppressed Children with chronic illness Prevention Influenza can be a serious illness in those with chronic underlying disease , especially if elderly. Persons considered to be most at risk of complications , should they develop Influenza , are the elderly and adults or children with chronic or debilitating illnesses.
Immunisation is a safe and effective way to help prevent infection.
Influenza vaccine is prepared each year using strains similar to those most likely to be circulating in the forthcoming season. Protection lasts for about 1 year , and to provide continuing protection , annual vaccination is necessary. Immunisation of fit children and adults is not recommended as routine. The final decision as to who should be offered immunisation is a matter for that person's medical practitioner. The authors take no responsibility for events arising from information taken from site.