Rebuilding After “Superflu”: Restoring Stamina, Strength and Well-Being

A tough bout of flu, or something more serious such as some strains of COVID-19, can leave you feeling drained long after the fever fades. 

Fatigue, weakness and breathlessness are common. The key to recovery is gradual progress, good nutrition and sensible exercise.

Start Slowly

Before structured workouts, begin with:

Gentle stretching

Short walks around the house

Light mobility work

Slow, steady breathing exercises

If symptoms worsen the next day, ease back. Recovery should feel progressive, not punishing.

Using a Home Treadmill Wisely

A treadmill offers controlled, weather-proof exercise, ideal for rebuilding stamina steadily.

Weeks 1–2

5–15 minutes walking

Flat incline

Comfortable, conversational pace

Weeks 3–4 (if symptom-free)

Extend to 20 minutes

Add short brisk intervals

Avoid rushing into running

Monitor breathlessness and next-day fatigue. Consistency matters more than intensity.

Rebuild Basic Strength

Illness reduces muscle mass quickly. Start small:

Bodyweight squats

Wall push-ups

Resistance band exercises

Two short sessions weekly is enough at first. Rest between sessions.

Nutrition for Recovery

Focus on:

Protein (eggs, fish, beans)

Wholegrains for energy

Healthy fats such as olive oil

Hydration

Small, regular meals can help if appetite is low.

Supplements: Keep It Sensible

Some people consider:

Vitamin D (especially in the UK winter)

Vitamin C and zinc

Magnesium

Omega-3

Avoid high doses and check with a GP or pharmacist if unsure.

Don’t Neglect Sleep

Quality sleep supports immune repair and muscle recovery. Keep a regular bedtime and limit late-night screen use.

When to Seek Advice

Consult a professional if you experience:

Ongoing chest pain

Severe breathlessness

Heart palpitations

Extreme fatigue lasting months

Final Thoughts

Recovery from “superflu” isn’t about pushing hard, it’s about rebuilding steadily. Gentle treadmill walking, basic strength work, balanced meals and sensible supplementation can help you regain stamina safely.

Progress may be gradual, but it will come.

New Age UK East Sussex charity shop opens in the heart of Eastbourne

Age UK East Sussex has officially opened a new charity shop in Langney Road, providing a welcoming new space for the community to shop, donate and support older people across the county.

Located in Langney Road, the new shop offers a wide range of quality clothing, books, household goods and other pre-loved items, all raising vital funds to support the charity’s work with older people in East Sussex.

The opening was marked by a visit from the The Worshipful the Mayor of Eastbourne, Councillor Margaret Bannister, alongside representatives from Age UK East Sussex, volunteers and members of the local community.

“It’s wonderful to be here to help celebrate the opening of Age UK East Sussex’s new shop. This is a positive step for the charity and for the many older people across our community who will benefit from its work.”

Supporting older people across East Sussex

Age UK East Sussex is a local, independent charity that has been supporting older people in the community for over 75 years. With a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, the charity delivers services, activities and advice that make a real difference to people in later life.

The charity supports thousands of older people each year, helping to reduce loneliness, improve wellbeing and enable people to live independently for as long as possible.

A shop with a purpose

The new Eastbourne shop is one of five charity shops and two furniture stores across the county that are run by Age UK East Sussex. As well as offering great value items, the shop plays an important role in funding the charity’s frontline services and creating opportunities for volunteering in the local area.

“I was so happy when I saw that this new shop was looking for volunteers. I applied straight away as I’ve been out of work for a while and wanted to build my confidence again,” said one new volunteer. “So far it has been everything I hoped it would be. The team are lovely and the customers are friendly. It’s done so much for me already.”

Get involved – Volunteer with them!

Age UK East Sussex is inviting local people to get involved by volunteering at the new Eastbourne shop.

There are a variety of roles available to suit different interests and availability - from welcoming customers and serving on the shop floor, to sorting donations and preparing stock behind the scenes. 

Whether someone can spare a few hours a week or more regular time, there is something for everyone.

Volunteering with Age UK East Sussex is a great way to meet new people, learn new skills and be part of a friendly team - all while helping to raise vital funds to support older people across East Sussex.

Anyone interested in volunteering can speak to the team in store, call 01273 476704, or email volunteers@ageukeastsussex.org.uk to find out more.

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/eastsussex

Grünenthal’s proprietary NaV 1.8 inhibitor enters clinical development

Grünenthal has announced that the first healthy volunteers have been enrolled in a Phase I trial of its voltage-gated sodium channel (NaV) 1.8 inhibitor. 

The orally administered investigational medicine aims to provide a non-opioid therapy option across a range of acute and chronic pain conditions. Full results of the trial are expected in the second half of this year, 2026.

The Phase I trial will involve 70 healthy volunteers and comprises a Single Ascending Dose and a Multiple Ascending Dose part. It aims to assess the safety and tolerability profile and the pharmacokinetic characteristics of the investigational medicine. In addition, the trial will generate initial insights into the compound’s pharmacology through a cold-pressor test.

“Inhibition of NaV 1.8 offers an exciting opportunity to provide patients with urgently needed non-opioid pain therapies,” Uli Brödl, Chief Scientific Officer, Grünenthal, told That's Health.

 “While we have seen the first medicine targeting NaV 1.8 receive FDA approval last year, we are committed to driving further innovation in this field where advanced assets may provide enhanced patient outcomes by blocking NaV 1.8 more comprehensively.”

About voltage-gated sodium channels (NaV)

There are a total of nine different NaV channels in the human body. The NaV 1.8 channel is a clinically and genetically validated pain target, as the channel plays a significant role in triggering excitatory signals in nociceptive neurons, which the human brain perceives as pain. Blocking the NaV 1.8 channel to suppress or prevent its excitatory signalling will provide a significant analgesic effect across a range of chronic and acute pain conditions.

FACTFILE:

Grünenthal is a global leader in pain management and related diseases. As a science-based, fully integrated pharmaceutical company, they have a long track record of bringing innovative treatments and state-of-the-art technologies to patients worldwide. Their purpose is to change lives for the better – and innovation is their passion. They focus all  their activities and efforts on working towards our vision of a World Free of Pain.

Grünenthal is headquartered in Aachen, Germany, and has affiliates in 28 countries across Europe, Latin America, and the U.S. 

Their products are available in approx. 100 countries. In 2024, Grünenthal employed around 4,300 people and achieved revenues of €1.8 billion.

For more information visit: https://www.grunenthal.com.

UK Men’s Sheds Association launches new guide to help communities set up Men’s Sheds in shipping containers

The UK Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA) has launched a free practical guide to help communities across the UK establish Men’s Sheds using shipping containers - a flexible, affordable and increasingly popular solution for creating safe workshop and social spaces for men.

Men’s Sheds play a vital role in tackling loneliness and social isolation, particularly among older men and those experiencing life changes such as retirement, bereavement or poor health. 

By providing shared spaces where men can connect, learn skills and support one another, Sheds contribute positively to mental health, suicide prevention, alcohol moderation and community wellbeing.

With community premises hard to come by in many areas of the UK, the new publication, Shipping Container Set Up for Sheds, draws on real-world experience from Men’s Sheds currently operating in containers, including detailed case studies from Amersham and Wendover Men’s Sheds. 

As of December 2025, at least 27 Men’s Sheds across the UK are using shipping containers as their main workshop space.

“The container didn’t just solve our space issue - it gave our members a meaningful project. Refitting it ourselves created purpose, teamwork and real pride. The finished workshop represents not just a building, but the confidence and skills gained along the way,” John Latchford of Amersham Men’s Shed in Buckinghamshire, told That's Health.

Shipping containers offer a quick and cost-effective way for new and developing Sheds to get started, particularly where permanent buildings are not viable. They are secure, weather-resistant, portable, and can be adapted for workshops, social spaces, storage and off-grid use.

The guide covers every stage of the process, including:

Planning, access and foundations

Power, lighting and ventilation

Health and safety, insurance and regulatory considerations

Workshop layout and future expansion

Insulation, noise control and dust management

Real case studies and practical lessons learned

The guide also highlights how container-based Sheds can grow over time, with examples of modular expansion, outdoor covered workspaces and renewable energy solutions.

By sharing practical advice and honest insights from experienced Sheds, UKMSA aims to reduce barriers for communities looking to create welcoming spaces that support men’s health, wellbeing and social connection.

“Shipping containers have enabled many Sheds to get up and running quickly and safely, often in places where no other option existed,” Rachel Meadows, head of development at UKMSA, added. 

“This guide brings together the collective knowledge of Shedders who’ve already done it, helping others avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions.”

The Shipping Container Set Up for Sheds guide is aimed at community groups, local authorities, funders and anyone interested in developing a Men’s Shed. It is available now at https://menssheds.org.uk/mens-sheds-resources/

For more information on starting up a Men’s Shed visit https://menssheds.org.uk/start-a-shed/

Extraordinary Conceptions Announces US/UK Hybrid Surrogacy Programme

Extraordinary Conceptions, a global leader in surrogacy and egg donation with over two decades of experience, today announced the continued expansion of its U.S./UK Hybrid Surrogacy Programme, an international model that has successfully supported UK families for over five years.

Developed in response to long surrogate matching delays in the UK due to somewhat outdated surrogacy legislation, the Hybrid Programme enables intended parents to create embryos locally with their trusted UK fertility specialists, while moving their journey forward quickly through matching with thoroughly vetted U.S.-based surrogates. 

This approach provides families with access to enforceable legal contracts, pre-birth orders, and comprehensive medical and insurance protections available in the United States.

Through this established model, Extraordinary Conceptions has already supported numerous successful international surrogacy journeys, offering UK families a reliable, secure, and efficient alternative to domestic-only programs.

How the Hybrid Model Works

The program is structured around a seamless two-country journey, combining the best of both healthcare systems:

• IVF & Embryo Creation in the UK

Intended parents complete fertility treatment and embryo creation with their chosen UK specialists, maintaining continuity of care with physicians they know and trust.

• Surrogate Travel for Embryo Transfer

Once embryos are created, Extraordinary Conceptions matches families with a qualified U.S. surrogate—often within a significantly shorter timeframe than in the UK. The surrogate travels to the UK for the embryo transfer, which is managed under the guidance of the intended parents’ IVF clinic. Following the procedure, the surrogate returns to her home state to continue the pregnancy.

• U.S.-Managed Pregnancy & Delivery

The pregnancy, legal process, insurance coverage, and delivery are managed in the United States, including the establishment of parental rights through pre-birth orders and coordinated care at leading hospitals and fertility clinics.

• End-to-End Agency Support

Extraordinary Conceptions works closely with UK fertility clinics to coordinate every aspect of the journey—from matching and legal services to travel logistics, case management, and emotional support—ensuring a seamless experience.

“Our mission has always been to make surrogacy accessible, ethical, and transparent for families around the world. The Hybrid Program was built with UK families in mind — so they never have to choose between the doctors they trust and the legal security they deserve. Parents can have both," Hilary Smith, Head of International Development, Extraordinary Conceptions, told That's Health.

Transparent, Competitive Pricing

The Hybrid Surrogacy Programme is offered at an estimated total cost of USD $130,000 to $150,000, depending on individual medical circumstances. This comprehensive fee typically covers:

Full agency coordination, from initial consultation through surrogate matching

Surrogate compensation, wellness support, and living expense allowance

U.S.-based legal services, including surrogacy agreements and parental rights establishment

Surrogate medical insurance for the duration of the pregnancy

Round-trip travel and accommodation for the surrogate's UK embryo transfer

As demand for international fertility solutions continues to rise, the Hybrid Program represents a new benchmark for safe, ethical, and family-centered surrogacy care.

www.extraconceptions.com

Know GvHD marks GvHD Day on February 17, 2026, with “Together through GvHD” campaign

Image courtesy gvhdhub.com

Know GvHD will mark GvHD Day on Tuesday February 17, 2026, uniting patients, caregivers, ambassadors, societies, and the wider community to raise awareness of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and the long-term impact it can have on those affected.

GvHD Day aims to shine a light on the ongoing physical and psychological effects of GvHD and its treatment, as well as the continuing need for education, support, and connection. 

Many people remain unaware of the long-term biological, physical, and emotional challenges associated with GvHD, the supportive care options available, and where patients, caregivers, and families can find trusted information and practical guidance. GvHD Day 2026 seeks to address these gaps by making easily-accessible, patient-focused resources available to the entire GvHD community.

Together through GvHD

This year’s campaign – Together through GvHD – is rooted in connection, understanding, and hope. It is a reminder to every patient and caregiver affected by GvHD that they are not alone and that support, information, and community are within reach.

Connect. Share. Feel supported.

As part of the campaign, Know GvHD is bringing together a range of supportive resources and peer networks for people affected by GvHD. This includes a new Support Groups section on the website, featuring links to trusted organizations and communities where patients and caregivers can find help, connection, and shared experiences.

The campaign also includes a dedicated WhatsApp support group, hosted by Know GvHD patient ambassadors. This supportive and welcoming space allows people living with GvHD to connect with others who understand, share experiences, ask questions, and find reassurance from peers navigating similar challenges.

Be part of GvHD Day

To help drive awareness and visibility on February 17, Know GvHD is inviting supporters to take part in a simple but meaningful activity:

Download a Know GvHD poster from the website or order printed copies

Take a photo with the poster

Share the photo on social media and tag Know GvHD

This collective action reflects the spirit of Together through GvHD, highlighting the importance of connection, visibility, and community for everyone affected by GvHD.

Helping patients at every step of their journey

Know GvHD is also introducing Know GvHD business cards, designed to raise awareness of the website as a trusted hub where patients and caregivers can:

Access clear, reliable education

Connect with others who understand GvHD

Find ongoing support and reassurance

Posters and business cards will be distributed across blood and marrow transplantation centers, hospitals, and relevant societies, helping ensure that patients encounter Know GvHD at key moments in their journey. Information on how to order business cards is available on the website here: https://know-gvhd.com/gvhd-day/

Help spread the word

Please share and disseminate Know GvHD resources, including:

Patient stories

Patient interviews

WhatsApp invite link

Downloadable poster and business cards

Know GvHD website link

When sharing on social media, please use these official hashtags:

#GvHDDay #GVHDAlliance #GvHDConnect4Hope

Together, the community can raise awareness, strengthen connections, and help build a more supportive future for everyone affected by GvHD.

Together through GvHD, because no one should face GvHD alone.

For more information on GvHD Day, please visit:

https://know-gvhd.com/gvhd-day

https://scientificeducationsupport.com

https://gvhdhub.com

Improved Pregnancy Outcomes for Women With Thyroid Conditions? BTF Has it Wrapped!

The Wrapped Brand Agency has been appointed by the British Thyroid Foundation (BTF) to develop a new nationwide awareness and education campaign aimed at improving conception and pregnancy outcomes for women who are affected by thyroid conditions.

The partnership will focus on translating new UK clinical guidance into clear, accessible resources for women and healthcare professionals, helping ensure thyroid conditions are identified and managed effectively before, during and after pregnancy.

Thyroid conditions affect around one in 20 people in the UK and disproportionately impact women. Poorly managed thyroid levels can make it harder to conceive and increase the risk of miscarriage and complications during pregnancy. 

Yet many women struggle to access clear, trusted information at a time when reassurance and practical guidance matter most.

Working closely with the BTF and women with lived experience, Wrapped will help develop patient-friendly resources and bite-sized educational content designed to build confidence, reduce anxiety and encourage early action, including speaking with a doctor, monitoring thyroid levels and following appropriate treatment plans. The campaign will also support GPs and midwives with simple, credible materials to help them confidently signpost patients and deliver guideline-led care.

The work aligns with newly published national clinical guidance from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists on managing thyroid disorders in pregnancy, creating an opportunity to reach women earlier and improve outcomes for both mothers and babies.

Mark Robinson, Chief Commercial Officer at Wrapped, told That's Health: “This project is about turning complex clinical guidance into something human, reassuring and genuinely useful. 

"Too many women are left feeling anxious, confused or unsupported when managing thyroid health alongside pregnancy. 

"We believe our role is to help bridge that gap, creating clear, accessible resources that empower women to take control of their thyroid health and support healthcare professionals to have confident, informed conversations.

“This partnership is also very personal for us at Wrapped. My daughter lives with an underactive thyroid, so we understand first-hand how important timely information and support can be. 

"We’re proud to be working alongside the BTF to help more women feel informed, supported and hopeful at such a critical time in their lives.”

Anna Woollven, Communications and Fundraising Manager at the British Thyroid Foundation, told us: “Every week we hear from women who have experienced difficulties conceiving or during pregnancy because their thyroid condition wasn’t managed as well as it could have been. Many tell us they struggled to find clear, trustworthy information when they needed it most.

“By working with Wrapped, we’re creating resources that reflect real patient needs and make it easier for women to understand what steps to take, while also helping healthcare professionals share consistent, evidence-based guidance. Our goal is simple: to help women access the right care at the right time, feel more in control of their condition, and improve pregnancy outcomes across the UK.”

The campaign will combine patient insight, clinical evidence and lived experience to deliver a joined-up programme of digital and printed resources, supported by targeted awareness activity. It aims to increase understanding of thyroid health in pregnancy, encourage earlier conversations with healthcare professionals and reduce the risk of avoidable complications through better monitoring and management.

https://www.btf-thyroid.org

https://wrappedagency.co.uk