- Did you know that influenza, also called the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs and that can cause mild to severe illness? People who have the flu often feel some or all of the following signs and symptoms:
- Fever/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Some people may experience vomiting and/or diarrhea, although this is more common in children than adults
- According to most experts, the flu viruses are mainly spread by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. Those droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby. Less often, a person might also the flu by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, eyes, or possibly their nose.
- Did you know that most healthy adults may be able to infect others with the flu virus beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five to seven days after becoming sick? Some people, especially young children and people with weakened immune systems, might be able to infect others for an even longer period of time.
- According to the CDC, the best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccine each season. There are several flu vaccine options available for the 2015-16 flu season, so to find the one that is right for you, speak with your healthcare provider today.
- Flu Facts, Seasonal influenza activity typically occurs between October and May, but flu outbreaks most commonly peaks in the U.S. between December and February. Ideally, you should receive your seasonal flu vaccination by October to ensure that as many people as possible are protected before flu season begins; however, getting vaccinated even later can still be protective.
- Did you know that the CDC recommends that everyone six months of age and older should get a flu vaccine each season? This recommendation has been in place since Feb. 24, 2010, when the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted for “universal” flu vaccination in the U.S. to expand protection against the flu to more people.
Get your flu shot today at one of our Comprehensive Health Clinics!
