Written by Dr Zamiel Hussain, Lead GP at AccessGP with contribution from Mohammed Hassan, Experienced Community Pharmacist
As winter continues, flu and seasonal respiratory infections are placing increasing pressure on individuals, families, and healthcare services across the UK. Alongside this rise in illness, GPs and pharmacists also see a surge in confusion about what genuinely helps, and what does not.
Recently, I was asked to contribute GP input to The i Paper on practical ways to protect yourself against flu and some of the most common myths we still encounter in everyday practice. The article focuses on clear, evidence-based advice during flu season, when accurate information matters most.
This article expands on those themes from both a GP and community pharmacist perspective, looking at prevention, vaccination, and when to seek medical advice.
What is flu and why is it different from a cold?
Influenza is a viral respiratory illness that circulates widely in the UK during autumn and winter. Unlike the common cold, flu often comes on suddenly and can cause fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, profound fatigue, cough, and sore throat.
While many people recover with rest and supportive care, flu can be more severe in older adults, pregnant women, people with long-term health conditions, and those with weakened immune systems. Even otherwise healthy adults can be significantly affected, sometimes needing time off work or support at home.
Common flu myths we still hear in clinics
“Antibiotics will help me recover faster”
Antibiotics do not treat viral infections such as flu. They are only effective against bacterial infections. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases the risk of side effects and contributes to antibiotic resistance.
“I should push through and carry on as normal”
Rest is a key part of recovery. Continuing to work, exercise, or socialise while unwell can prolong symptoms and increase the risk of complications or spreading infection to others.
“If I’m generally healthy, flu won’t affect me”
Many healthy adults are surprised by how debilitating flu can be. While complications are more likely in higher-risk groups, no one is immune from significant symptoms.
What actually helps reduce the risk of flu?
Vaccination where eligible
The flu vaccine remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness and complications for those who are eligible. While it does not guarantee complete protection, it significantly lowers the risk of serious disease.
Hand hygiene and sensible precautions
Regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with others when unwell continue to make a difference, particularly in shared households and workplaces.
Rest, fluids, and symptom relief
Adequate rest, hydration, and appropriate use of paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage symptoms. Always follow dosing guidance and seek advice if you are unsure.
A community pharmacist’s insight on flu vaccination
To add a wider clinical perspective, we also spoke to Mohammed Hassan, Superintendent Pharmacist and Director of Bedford Travel Clinic, about the role of flu vaccination in the community.
Mohammed explains that each winter, seasonal influenza places a significant and often underestimated burden on individuals, families, and the wider healthcare system. In community pharmacy, the impact is seen not only in vulnerable patients, but also in otherwise healthy adults who are surprised by how unwell flu can make them.”
He highlights that the flu vaccine remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness, complications, and onward transmission. Importantly, influenza viruses change year on year, which is why vaccination is recommended annually, even for people who have previously had flu or were vaccinated the season before.
Vaccination is not just about personal protection. It helps reduce the spread of infection within households and communities, protecting older relatives, young children, and people with long-term health conditions.
Community pharmacists are clinically trained to assess suitability, provide evidence-based advice, and deliver vaccinations safely and efficiently. This improves access to care while helping to relieve pressure on GP surgeries and hospitals during peak winter demand. From a local perspective, making prevention straightforward and accessible supports a more resilient healthcare system throughout winter.
More information about vaccination services is available via Bedford Travel Clinic.
When should you seek medical advice?
Most cases of flu can be managed at home, but it is important to seek medical advice if:
- Symptoms are worsening rather than improving
- There is significant breathlessness or chest pain
- Fever is persistent or very high
- You are unable to keep fluids down
- You are pregnant, immunocompromised, or have long-term conditions
- Symptoms are not settling after several days
A proper clinical assessment is particularly important during flu season, when different respiratory infections can overlap and symptoms can be misleading.
A GP perspective on winter illness
Clear, calm public health advice matters every winter. Much of what helps is simple, but it relies on accurate information and timely support.
Seeing these messages discussed in The i Paper is encouraging, particularly the focus on practical, evidence-based steps rather than alarm. In primary care, reassurance, clear guidance, and appropriate assessment continue to make a real difference for patients navigating winter illness.
If you are unsure about your symptoms or need medical advice during flu season, speaking to a GP can help you decide the most appropriate next steps.
Key sources: The i Paper, Flu prevention and common myths; AccessGP Clinical Knowledge Base, Fever and flu-like illness; NHS UK, Flu (influenza); NHS UK, Flu vaccine; UK Health Security Agency, Seasonal influenza guidance.