NHS Launches ’Flu jab Campaign

The NHS has launched its 2008 immunisation campaign against influenza with a press release and podcast highlighting the dangers of this disease for vulnerable groups (including kidney patients) and seeking to dispel some of the popular misunderstandings surrounding the infection.

Among the points highlighted in the press release are:

• Over a quarter (28%) believe in feeding a cold and starving a fever, while 1 in 20 even believe carrying garlic can ward off flu
• An alarming 1 in 3 mistakenly believe that taking vitamin C can actually cure the flu virus, despite no medical evidence to support this
• More than 1 in 10 admit they fear ‘catching their death’ from going out with wet hair
• More than 1 in 20 falsely believe the flu jab — the most effective means of protecting against the virus — can actually give you flu

Those in the high-risk groups such as kidney patients, are advised to seek advice about the vaccination from their GP.

(Information from NHS Press Release.)

Read the press release in full

Listen to the Podcast by Dr Hilary Jones

More information from the NHS immunisation website

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Page created: 7 October 2008

Last updated: 8 October 2008

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