What is the Flu?
The flu is a viral illness caused by Influenzae. There are many types of influenzae, but type A & B are the most common and the two virus types that cause our seasonal epidemics.
What are the Symptoms of the Flu?
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Nasal drainage or stuffy nose
- Muscle aches/body aches
- Headache
- Tiredness
These symptoms often happen suddenly (unlike a cold, where symptoms may come on gradually and slowly get worse before getting better).
Flu symptoms generally appear 1-4 days after a person has been exposed to the virus.
What are the complications from the Flu?
- Pneumonia
- Ear infections
- Sinus infections
- Other contagious illnesses that are in the community
- Brain or heart inflammation
Who is at highest risk to develop complications from the flu?
- Adults over 65 years of age (think about grandparents)
- Children under the age of 2 years, especially children under the age of 6 months
- Children with other chronic conditions such as asthma, heart conditions, or diabetes
How do we prevent Flu infection?
- Get your flu vaccine!
- The flu vaccine decreases your risk of getting flu illness when you have been exposed, and if you get the flu, your symptoms will be less severe.
- Getting your flu vaccine also protects family members in your household that are higher risk for complications from the flu, including the small babies who are not old enough to receive the vaccine themselves (Remember, they need to be 6 months old to get it!).
- Good handwashing: wash your hands before and after you eat, and after you cough (into your elbow) to decrease the risk of spreading illness
- Do not share drinks or food with others
- Try to stay away from people who are showing signs of illness
Questions? Give us a call or schedule an appointment to talk with one of our providers!