Influenza
Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all these symptoms: fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue (tiredness) some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults. It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.
The flu viruses spread mainly by tiny droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Less often, a person might get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose or possibly their eyes. People with flu are most contagious in the first 3-4 days after their illness begins. The time from when a person is exposed and infected with flu to when symptoms begin is about two days, but can range from about one to four days. Testing for flu is easy at many clinics and physician offices. Antiviral medication is available if used early to help alleviate your flu symptoms.
The best way to prevent flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year. Flu vaccine has been shown to reduce flu related illnesses and the risk of serious flu complications that can result in hospitalization or even death. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) also recommends everyday preventive actions like staying away from people who are sick, covering coughs and sneezes, and frequent handwashing to help slow the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses, like flu.
The 2023-2024 Influenza vaccine covers the new influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 component, A/Darwin (H3N2)and Influenza B/Singapore, 2 separate lineage virus vaccine antigens. All individuals age 6 months and older should receive a flu vaccine. There are now egg-free vaccines available for those with egg allergies, so is no longer an exception. High dose influenza vaccine is recommended for those 65 years and older.
Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or into the corner of your elbow is best to contain the droplet spread of the flu. Washing your hands often and avoid touching the mucus membranes of your eyes, nose and mouth will help prevent you catching the flu.
This information is provided by our experts at Midland Health.