Flu cases are increasing across Wiltshire. By taking a few small, sensible steps, we can help reduce the spread and keep our community safe as we head into Christmas and the New Year.
🛡️ What You Can Do
- Wear a face mask if you’re unwell
Experiencing coughs, colds, or flu-like symptoms? Please consider wearing a face mask when visiting our surgeries. It’s not mandatory, but it’s a simple way to help protect vulnerable patients and staff. - Use hand sanitiser
Sanitiser stations are available at all entrances and key patient areas. Please use them on arrival—and throughout your visit. - Maintain space where possible
A bit of breathing room in waiting areas can help reduce the risk of passing on infections. - Consider a phone consultation
If a telephone appointment is more comfortable and clinically appropriate for your needs, please let us know when booking. We continue to offer face‑to‑face care, but the option for a phone call is there if it suits you better. - Improve ventilation
Even slightly opening a window can help reduce airborne viruses by bringing in fresh air and removing stale air. [gov.uk]
Why These Measures Matter
Seasonal flu can be severe for older people and those with health conditions. However, keeping infections at bay helps protect everyone—and keeps our surgeries running smoothly over the busy season. These steps are easy to follow and make a real difference in reducing risk.
💉 Get Vaccinated
The annual flu vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself. It’s free on the NHS for people aged 65+, pregnant women, those with certain health conditions, carers, social care staff and frontline health workers. [nhs.uk], [gov.uk]
This year, You can still book your flu vaccine at:
- A local pharmacy (for those aged 18+)
- Using the NHS App or NHS.UK
📌 It takes around two weeks for the vaccine to become effective, so the sooner you get it, the better.
🤒 Looking After Yourself
If you do catch the flu, home care can help you recover:
- Rest and stay warm
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Use pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (as directed)
- A pharmacist can advise on remedies
In Summary
These simple, easy measures—masks, hand sanitiser, distance, ventilation, and vaccinations—together are powerful in reducing flu spread. There’s no need to worry; it’s about sensible precautions that benefit everyone.
Let’s help each other stay healthy and enjoy a happy Christmas and New Year! 🎄✨
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