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Your health
Beat flu with a jab
It's getting to that time of year again when the weather takes a turn for the worse and the usual coughs and colds start to do the rounds. Also increasingly common towards the end of the year is influenza (flu), which is actually a very powerful infection and not just a severe cold, as many people think.
Seasonal flu is a real concern, particularly for those who are vulnerable such as older people. It affects the immune system and can leave people more prone to other illnesses and infections. However, the good news is that flu can be prevented just by having a simple jab.
Flu jabs are recommended and provided free of charge for people who are classed as being 'at risk'. People in this group include those aged 65 or over, and people with a chronic, ongoing illness such as diabetes. This year, for the first time, the main carers of older people or disabled people whose welfare may be at risk if the carer falls ill, are also being offered the jab. Health and social care staff are routinely given the vaccine to protect themselves and their patievents from catching and spreading the infection.
If you are in one of the 'at risk' groups, you should automatically receive an invitation from your GP practice to make an appointment for your free flu jab. If you're offered the jab, you should take it up, as the sooner you receive it, the sooner you'll be protected.
The local Primary Care Trusts are also gearing up to ward off flu this winter by stocking up on vaccines and working with care homes to help protect as many residevents and staff as possible.
The threat posed to us by flu can vary from year to year, but the indications are that flu could cause particular problems this winter. So if you're offered the jab, or you think you may be eligible but haven't been contacted, get in touch with your local GP practice. After all, it takes a good jab to fight off the flu.
For more information on flu vaccinations, visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk * or phone 0845 46 47.
The tasty way to 5 A DAY
We all know that fruit and veg are good for us, but it's easy to get bored of the same old things. So why not try making fruit smoothies to drink? They're fun, easy and packed with vitamins - a great way of helping you to get your '5 A Day'.
This recipe will give you a real vitamin C boost - perfect for fighting off coughs and colds.
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Strawberry, orange juice and kiwi smoothie
(Makes 2-3 glasses)
You will need:
250g strawberries (washed and prepared)
300ml fresh orange juice
2 kiwi fruit (washed, peeled and cored)
1 tsp of honey (if desired)
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Method
Blend all ingredievents together in a blender, liquidiser or food processor until smooth.
Serve and enjoy!
Tip - you can always keep back a little bit of the fruit so you can decorate the glass before serving. Adding ice when blending makes a nice chilled refreshing drink, or in the hot weather, you can also use frozen fruit.
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