Flu Prevention
Seasonal influenza’s symptoms can be mild to severe and include:
- Fever and chills (although not all people who get the flu have a fever)
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny nose or congestion
- Headaches or body aches
- Fatigue
Older people, pregnant women, children under age five, and individuals with a chronic illness or health condition such as asthma, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, or HIV, are at higher risk for developing complications from the flu (e.g., pneumonia or bronchitis). The flu can also make the effects of a chronic illness or health condition get worse.
What You Can Do
To prevent the spread of influenza, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone over the age of six months get an annual flu vaccination, especially those at higher risk for developing complications from the flu. In addition, because the flu is spread through contact with people who have it, if you become sick, stay away from other people as much as possible. You should also cover your cough or sneeze and wash your hands frequently. Finally, if you become sick and your doctor prescribes flu anti-viral drugs, you should take all of your medication as prescribed.
Go to the CDC website for more information about influenza »