Some of the most common symptoms of flu are headaches, dry, chesty coughs, tiredness and weakness, aches and pains, sore throat and fever, express.co.uk wrote.

Flu usually clears up by itself after a couple of weeks, but symptoms can be very unpleasant.

Follow these tips, as recommended by Dr. Lisa Anderson at Doctify.co.uk, to help prevent catching flu this winter.

The flu jab is the most effective protection you can take against flu, according to Anderson.

People over the age of 65, young children, pregnant women and people with certain medical conditions can get the flu jab for free on the NHS.

“Even if you don’t fall into one of these categories, you should consider getting the flu jab anyway to save yourself a week in bed,” said Anderson.

Wash your hands regularly

Washing your hands can prevent the virus from travelling into the body if you touch your eyes or mouth.

Get enough sleep

Sleep helps the body boost immunity, so you should aim for at least seven hours a night.

Drink tea

Tea with lemon and honey can be a ‘miracle cure’, according to Anderson. Breathing in the steam stimulates the hair follicles in the nose to push out germs.

Eat protein

Research has shown a lower protein intake can deplete the immune system, according to Anderson, so include red meat, eggs and nuts in your diet, although be sure these are part of a balanced diet.

Exercise

Exercising regularly boosts the immune system, but at the gym always use your own towel and wipe down equipment with antibacterial wipes to ensure you don’t catch germs.

Eat fruit and veg, or drink fresh juice

Fruit and vegetables contain vitamins needed to support the immune system.