Prevention- The flu vaccine

Much of the illness and death caused by the influenza virus can be prevented by the annual influenza vaccination. Many individuals still do not have the knowledge or understand the importance or how to get the vaccine and also because at times, stocks can run out of the vaccine. There have been many miss-understandings of the vaccine in the public eye. The vaccine is given each year by an injection. People who are at high risk of getting the influenza virus are strongly recommended to get annual vaccination. These groups of people include:

· Aged over 65

· Chronic respiratory disease

· Chronic heart disease

· Chronic kidney disease

· Chronic liver disease

· Diabetes

· Chronic neurological disease

· Immunosuppression illness

High risk groups also include those working in public sector areas or those in contact with a number of different groups of people, for example : health care workers, those living in close proximity to others, gym environments, air conditioned areas or working.

The vaccine needs to be given each year, this is due to the clever fact that the virus changes continually by mutating. Therefore, each year, the vaccine changes according to the most up to date virus that is present. Also, once a person receives the vaccine, the effectiveness of the vaccine, reduces over time in an individual.

The vaccine should be taken around September of each year and it takes approximately 2 weeks for the beneficially effects of the vaccine to develop.

Care Quality Commision Approved and Registered

Galen Health Partners

Galen Health Vision and Ethos 'Your Health in Your Hands'

"Your health in your hands is our slogan for a reason. To date the UK healthcare system works on 'reactive health' to cure and to solve health issues as and when they arise. Conversely, in most other aspects of our lives we operate a 'proactive' philosophy, for example in business we forecast, plan, strategise, research, and test, all to ensure our business remains healthy year-on-year. Even our car receives regular services and inspections; we check the oil, the water, the tyres and all to prevent a large bill or a problem further down the line. Why not do this with your health, your family's health and your employee's health; after all good health is your biggest asset in life. Why wait until health complicates your life, why not become truly proactive about your primary health and avoid complications later on in life. Why not utilise Galen Health and why not have 'Your Health in Your Hands' ."

Dr J Lidder - Clinical Lead

At Galen Health we aim to take care and promote all aspects of your primary health to prevent illness rather than simply trying to cure it.

Galen Health gives patients absolute choice and control of their health needs, their families health needs and their employees health needs. Galen Health works with you, the patient, to actually reduce your medical bills by promoting your overall health, well being and lifestyle.