What is the Flu?
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu Season can start as early as October and last through May.
Symptoms
fever (usually high)
headache
extreme tiredness
dry cough
sore throat
runny or stuffy nose
muscle aches
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea may occur
Statistics on the flu
In the United States, each year, 5% to 20% of people will get the flu, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from complications of the flu, and 36,000 people will die from the flu. Seniors, young children and people with health complications are more at risk for the complications associated with the flu.
Complications of Flu
Complications of flu can include bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes. Children may get sinus problems and ear infections.
Causes
Flu is transmitted in the droplets of moisture from coughing and sneezing. You can pass the disease up to 1 day before symptoms start up until 5 days after symptoms begin.
Flu Prevention
The best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu shot. Anyone concerned about getting the flu should get a shot, but higher risk individuals should get a shot each year, as well as their caregivers.
High risk people include:
65 and older
people who live in nursing homes or long term care facilities
people 6 months and older with chronic illness or those who were hospitalized recently or those with weakened immune systems
women who will be pregnant during flu season
all children 6 to 23 months old
anyone with heart or respiratory illnesses
Visit our site Just Flu for more information on Flu facts, statistics, causes and more. Also has the latest news on Flu outbreaks.
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