As winter approaches the SUUG Advice Service  would like to help students  prevent or reduce the incidence of influenza. 

Flu is a highly infectious and very common viral illness that is spread by coughs and sneezes.

It's not the same as the common cold. Flu is caused by a different group of viruses and symptoms tend to be more severe and last for longer.

You can catch flu – short for influenza – all year round, but it is especially common in winter, which is why it is also known as 'seasonal flu'.

How are flu symptoms different from symptoms with colds?

Unlike symptoms of a common cold, flu symptoms usually come on suddenly. Flu usually starts with the abrupt onset of fever, headache, fatique and body aches. Here's a list of flu symptoms you might feel:

• High temperature
• Severe aches and pains in the joints and muscles and around the eyes
• Generalised weakness
• Ill appearance with warm, flushed skin and red, watery eyes
• Headache
• Dry cough
• Sore throat and watery discharge from your nose
• Diarrhoea or upset stomach

Prevention better than cure

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Dispose of dirty tissue after use.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as flu virus spreads that way.
•  Maintain good basic hygiene; wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze and before eating to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to your face or to other people.
• Those in high risk group should seek vaccination through their GP
• Stay away from others if you develop flu-like symptoms.

Boots Offer The Winter Flu Jab Service costs £12.99. However, you may be able to get the vaccination for free on the NHS from your doctor:

• If you are aged 65 or over
• If you are pregnant
• If you suffer from a health condition such as diabetes or asthma.
• If you care for someone whose welfare may be at risk if you fall ill

For more advice contact the advice team on suugadvice@greenwich.ac.uk