The seasonal flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and in some instances can even cause death. Most people have some immunity and a vaccine is available.
Symptoms of flu include:
| · fever (usually high) |
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· extreme tiredness |
| · headache |
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· dry cough |
| · sore throat |
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· runny or stuffy nose |
| · muscle aches |
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· Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults
Complications of Flu
Complications of flu can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes.
How Flu Spreads
Flu viruses spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 5 days after becoming sick.
Preventing Seasonal Flu: Get Vaccinated
The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year.
Carson City Community Health Clinic
Flu Vaccinations
Thursdays: 8:30am -11:30am and 1:00pm – 4:30pm
900 E. Long Street
Cost: Adults - $20
FluMist- $25
We also accept Nevada Check-up and Medicaid.
Also, good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands often can help prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu.
1. Avoid close contact.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
2. Stay home when you are sick.
If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
3. Cover your mouth and nose.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
4. Clean your hands.
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
6. Practice other good health habits.
Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
For more information on Seasonal Flu, go to:
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/whatyoushouldknow.htm
For information on Pandemic Flu click here.
Last updated date: 11/4/2009 4:12:05 PM