"Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness" - and FLU! Although our old enemy causes infections all year round, it is most common in late autumn and winter, and can lead to complications such as pneumonia which may require hospital admission. Flu can affect anyone, young or old, but certain people are at greater risk of serious illness as a result of the virus, and for this reason are offered a vaccination each year . The "at risk" groups are generally advised to have a flu jab every year - this is because the virus changes slightly each year. The vaccine is offered to the following groups:-

* Age 65 and over

* Chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, lung conditions, kidney or liver diseases, and those with low immunity.

* People living in residential or nursing homes

* People who care for the above vulnerable groups

* Children with previous hospital admission for pneumonia

These may include a fever (high temperature)- which may cause sweating and shivering, aches and pains, dry cough, sore throat, sneezing, headaches and feeling sick. Symptoms peak after 1-2 days, but last for about a week and may leave you feeling exhausted for several weeks after the infection has cleared.

Antibiotics will not treat flu, as it is a virus - they may however be required if complications develop.

* Keep warm and take plenty of rest

* Use paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve pain and reduce temperature.

* Drink plenty of fluids

* Consult your local chemist for remedies available "over the counter"

* It may help to take a vitamin C and/or zinc supplement

* See your GP if symptoms persist or worsen after a few days.

 One of my favourite remedies is Blackberry and Elderberry Vinegar - it boosts the immune system, is full of vitamin C and contains natural anti-inflammatory properties. The vinegar itself also helps to loosen mucous. There are many versions of the recipe - I collect the berries, wash them and soak in cider vinegar for three days before straining. I then add sugar and boil the mixture for about 5 minutes before cooling and bottling. A tablespoon with hot water and a spoonful of honey is a wonderful hedgerow remedy.

The herb Echinacea is available in most chemists and supermarkets now, and may also help to strengthen the immune system.

Aromatherapy can help to relieve the symptoms of flu, and help to boost the immune system. Many of you will remember as children, having a well-known vapour rub applied to chest and back when suffering from colds and flu - turn the pot over and you will find that it contains the essential oils of menthol, eucalyptus and cedarwood amongst others. Try also Tea Tree, clove or thyme for anti-viral properties. Oils can be used alone or mixed (I like to use a mix of eucalyptus, peppermint, ravensara and canadian balsam ) and added to a hot bath, or simply a bowl of hot water with a towel over the head. Try adding three drops of oil and breathing the vapours slowly for 10 minutes - (keeping the eyes closed to prevent irritation), or mix about 7 drops into a spoonful of cream, yoghurt or honey and add to a hot bath. A few drops on a tissue will also help to relieve nasal congestion.