Flu Information
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What is the flu?
Influenza (the "flu") is a highly contagious viral infection of the nose, throat and lungs. It ranks as one of the most severe illnesses of the winter season.
How is it spread?
Influenza is airborne and easily spread from person to person, primarily when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus is also transmitted by direct hand contact.
What are the symptoms?
The typical influenza illness brings an abrupt onset of high fever, chills, a dry cough, headache, runny nose, sore throat and muscle and joint pain. Unlike other common respiratory infections, influenza can cause extreme fatigue that lasts several days to several weeks.
Is the flu serious?
Influenza can lead to hospitalization or even death, especially among the elderly. 500,000 people end up in hospital emergency rooms each year from the flu or flu complications. 5,000 Americans die annually from flu-related illness. Even without complications, the flu can make you miserable and mean many days away from work or other responsibilities.
Vaccine
Is the vaccine safe?
You cannot get influenza from the vaccine. The flu shot is very safe and generally has few side effects. There may be some soreness, redness or swelling where the shot is given. Other possible mild side effects include a headache and low-grade fever for a day after you receive the shot.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
- People aged 65 or older
- Residents of nursing homes or other chronic care facilities or housing
- Adults and children with chronic diseases
- All healthcare workers
- Healthy individuals who want to protect themselves against the flu
- Pregnant women should check with their physician about receiving the flu shot
Who should NOT get the flu vaccine?
- Women who are in their first trimester of pregnancy
- People who are allergic to eggs or chicken feathers
- People who are ill or have a fever at the time they wish to receive the flu vaccine
- People who have had previous serious reactions to the flu vaccine (very rare)
- People who have had Guillian Barre Syndrome
Note: You need to have a new flu shot every year.