Influenza (also known as the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The flu is different from a cold. The flu usually comes on suddenly and may include these symptoms:
Fever (usually high)
Headache
Extreme tiredness
Dry cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle aches
Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults
These symptoms are usually referred to as "flu-like symptoms."
CDC Says "Take 3" this flu season!
Flu is a serious disease. Each year in the United States, on average:
5% to 20% of the population gets the flu;
More than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications, and;
About 36,000 people die from flu.
Take action to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu.
1
Vaccinate: Take time to get a vaccine.
A flu vaccine is the best way to protect against the flu.
The flu vaccine protects against three different flu viruses.
Getting a vaccine is very important for people at high risk for serious flu complications and their close contacts. People at high risk include infants, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart disease, and people 65 and older.
This year, an all-time high supply of vaccine is available so more people than ever can seek protection from the flu.
Because flu season can last as late as May, getting a flu vaccine now can still be beneficial.
2
Stop Germs: Take everyday preventative actions.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze—throw the tissue away after you use it.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If you are not near water, use an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
Stay away as much as you can from people who are sick.
If you get the flu, stay home from work or school. If you are sick, do not go near other people so that you don't make them sick.
Try not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs often spread this way.
3
Antiviral Drugs: Take antiviral drugs if your doctor says you need them.
There are flu antiviral drugs that can treat the flu or prevent infection with flu viruses.
For treatment, antiviral drugs should be started within 48 hours of getting sick.
For prevention, antiviral drugs are 70% to 90% effective in preventing infection.
These drugs must be prescribed by a health care provider.
If you develop flu-like symptoms (usually high fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and muscle aches), or are exposed to the flu before you get a flu vaccine, your health care professional will decide whether you should take antiviral drugs.
