Influenza

Influenza, or ‘flu’, is a highly contagious acute viral infection that affects people of all ages. Most people recover in a week or two, but flu can cause serious illness and death, especially in the very young and the elderly. Flu epidemics occur mainly in the winter and can result in widespread disruption to healthcare and other services. A vaccine is produced every year based on the strains of virus expected to be circulating.

Man sneezing

Winterwatch keeps public up-to-date

A nationwide information service to help keep everyone safe and well this winter was launched today by the Chief Medical Officer, Professor Dame Sally Davies. The online hub will provide … Read more → – Winterwatch keeps public up-to-date

Published: 17 November, 2011

UK one of best prepared for pandemic

The UK Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Strategy 2011, which aims to ensure that the UK continues to be one of the best-prepared countries in the world, was published today. The updated … Read more → – UK one of best prepared for pandemic

Published: 10 November, 2011

Remember to get your flu jab

The Chief Medical Officer, Professor Dame Sally Davies, is reminding everyone in an at-risk group to come forward and join the estimated seven million people who have already had the … Read more → – Remember to get your flu jab

Published: 3 November, 2011

Plan launched to keep us healthy this winter

Older couple wrapped up for winter weather

The ‘Cold weather plan for England’, which aims to protect people’s health throughout the cold winter months, was launched today – the official start of winter. The cross-Government initiative reminds … Read more → – Plan launched to keep us healthy this winter

Published: 1 November, 2011

Update to Green Book: chapter 19 influenza and Chapter 25 : Pneumococcal

Download the update patch to chapter 19 influenza and Chapter 25 : Pneumococcal The Green Book presents latest information on vaccines and vaccination procedures for all vaccine preventable infectious diseases … Read more → – Update to Green Book: chapter 19 influenza and Chapter 25 : Pneumococcal

Published: 17 October, 2011

Seasonal Influenza – Healthcare Workers Vaccine Uptake Collection 2011/12

This document provides guidance for Seasonal Influenza vaccine-uptake coordinators on how to enter the vaccine uptake data for 2011/12. Read report Seasonal Influenza – Healthcare Workers Vaccine Uptake Collection 2011/12

Published: 7 October, 2011

Winter flu vaccination programme begins

From today, millions of people in at risk groups are urged to get vaccinated, as the seasonal flu vaccine is made available free of charge from GPs for people in … Read more → – Winter flu vaccination programme begins

Published: 3 October, 2011