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00:00It's officially autumn with winter around the corner and the change in the seasons bringing
00:05seasonal colds and flus. Here's everything you need to know about the flu and who's eligible
00:12for the flu jab this year. The flu is a common viral infection. Some of the symptoms can
00:18include a high temperature, a sore throat, a headache, a runny nose, aches and pains,
00:25fatigue, loss of appetite and stomach upset. If you suspect that you have the flu it's
00:31really important that you prioritise resting and sleep. You also should ensure that you're
00:37well hydrated and keep drinking lots of fluid and you may also take paracetamol or ibuprofen
00:42to lower your temperature and to ease any aches and pains. As the flu is a viral infection
00:50antibiotics are not recommended for the flu. If you suspect that your symptoms are getting
00:56worse or if you have any concerns at all about the flu for yourself or a child it's really
01:02important that you reach out for an urgent GP appointment or call NHS 111. Symptoms of
01:08the cold, flu and Covid can be quite similar so it is really important that if you have
01:14any symptoms that you test just to make sure so you know what type of viral infection you
01:19are dealing with. This autumn the NHS will be rolling out its annual flu jab vaccination
01:25programme with those eligible for the flu jab able to access their flu vaccination alongside
01:31their Covid vaccination in England from October 3rd. The flu jab is available to anyone who's
01:39at risk of becoming seriously ill if they catch the flu. This includes people over the age of 65,
01:46people with certain long-term health conditions, people who live in care homes or people who are
01:53main carer for an older or vulnerable disabled person and receive carers allowance. It's also
02:00for people who live with somebody who is immunocompromised and frontline NHS health
02:06and social care workers will also be eligible to access the flu jab through their employer.
02:11How you access your flu jab will vary depending on what region of the UK you live in. In England
02:17the booking system is currently open having recently opened on Monday. To access an appointment
02:23for a flu jab you can book this via the NHS website, NHS app or by calling 119 if you can't get online.