Protection of the life and welfare of Warwickshire Communities underpins the work of the Emergency Planning Unit. We actively engaged in liaison with the health sector, with the aim of protecting people’s health and reducing the impact of infectious diseases, chemical, poisons, radiation hazards, and other health related threats.
Responsibility for contingency planning and responding to these types of incidents is largely dealt with by the Local Health Trusts, and Health Protection Agency.
If you are involved in a serious health emergency dial 999 immediately and ask the operator for the service you require and give the details of the incident. To help you decide if you are dealing with a ‘serious’ situation, visit the NHS Direct Website for further guidance.
Flu
Flu is a highly infectious and very common viral illness that is spread by coughs and sneezes. It’s not the same as the common cold. Flu is caused by a different group of viruses and symptoms tend to be more severe and last for longer.
You can catch flu – short for influenza – all year round, but it is especially common in winter, which is why it is also known as seasonal flu. Flu causes a sudden high temperature, headache and general aches and pains, tiredness and sore throat. You can also lose your appetite, feel nauseous and have a cough. Flu symptoms can make you feel so exhausted and unwell that you have to stay in bed and rest until you feel better.
Flu vaccination leaflet for winter 2012/13.
The Flu vaccination for winter 2012/13 leaflet (pdf, 985Kb) explains how those people at increased risk from flu can protect themselves before this winter’s flu season starts.
It describes the cause and symptoms of flu and explains how it spreads. It lists the conditions and circumstances that put people at increased from the disease, with particular emphasis on pregnant women, and it provides information on how all those who are eligible can get their free flu jab.
Flu vaccination for winter 2012/13 leaflet (pdf, 985Kb).
Heat wave
We offer simple and effective advice on keeping safe and well in summer, to ensure that all can enjoy the weather whilst protecting ourselves and others from potentially fatal affects. Visit the heat wave page for more information.
