CAMPAIGNS & AWARENESS

AFREKID carries a number of kidney awareness throughout the year. The awareness campaigns range from those promoted by the NHS, national initiatives, African initiatives and as planned by AFREKID in its annual plans:

Flu immunisation

The Department of Health (DoH) is urging people most at risk to get the flu jab.

 Who should have a flu jab?

The following people are entitled to a free jab include:

·          People aged 65 or over.

·          Age 6 months+ with serious respiratory, heart, liver or renal disease and diabetics

·          Anyone with lowered immunity as a result of disease or treatment

What is involved with flu jab vaccination?

The vaccination only takes a minute and is safe, effective and free for those who are at risk. The flu jab lasts for up to 12 months and, as the virus constantly mutates, a new jab is needed each year.

 How can I find out?

To find out about getting a flu jab talk to your GP, practice nurse, pharmacist, call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk  or NHS www.immunisation.nhs.uk

Kidney Screening

The kidney screening programme aims to bring awareness of risk factors of kidney disease such as:

Diabetes

People are encouraged to have diabetes check and those who are diabetic should know that managing that glucose level is important as part of preventing kidney damage. AFREKID runs regular diabetes screening in partnership with other charities and health authorities. We are currently fundraising for Get Diabetes Monitor at Home so that those at risk can check their blood glucose regularly.

Diabetes Nephropathy

Patients must respond and respect invitations from their surgeries if they are asked to attend screening.

Diabetes Retinopathy

Apart from causing kidney failure, diabetes can also cause blindness among other. Patients must respond and respect invitations from their surgeries if they are asked to attend eye screening.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can lead to kidney failure if it not controlled and monitored properly. We are currently fundraising for high blood pressure monitors to provide to those at risk groups so that they can monitor their blood pressure at home.