We are now in the season of winter viruses such as flu and we wanted to take this opportunity to remind you to look after yourselves.
Flu and colds can spread quickly on a University campus and for most of us it will be a minor illness and what you will need is plenty of fluid and lots of rest.
Fran Rintoul (Lead Nurse) from University Nursing Services has provided some hints and tips in trying to keep yourself well:
- Hand washing is key – keep on washing your hands thoroughly especially after using toilets or being in groups of people.
- Look after your diet – a balanced healthy diet will help you fight off infections, lots of vegetables, fruit, fish and hot meals in these winter months makes a huge difference.
- Have a self-care kit at home – have your own first aid kit containing simple pain killers such as Ibuprofen, paracetamol, lozenges, honey and lemon to add to hot water – good for coughs.
- Stay at home if you are unwell – this will help reduce the spread of the flu virus. If you are missing a teaching or assessment please see the engagement pages on how to record an absence.
- Appropriate use of NHS services – most of us can care for ourselves when we have flu, however the Nursing Service is available for assessment if symptoms are concerning.
In some cases vaccination is recommended, the NHS recommends flu vaccination for key groups and if you are in one of these groups or you are a carer of someone in a key group you should contact your GP Surgery.
More information on Health and Wellbeing can be found on SSW pages and the NHS also produces this guide on winter vaccinations and winter health.