Flu Fast Facts
The flu is a highly-contagious viral infection of the nose, throat and lungs. While most people recover after about a week of symptoms, certain populations are at increased risk of serious complications. About 40,000 Americans die from influenza complications each year.
Flu Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Dry cough (beginning stages)
- Sore throat
- Runny/stuffy nose
- Muscle/body aches
Who’s at risk of serious complications?
- Young children
- Pregnant women
- Elderly
- Chronically ill
How does the flu spread?
Since the flu is a respiratory illness, it spreads when otherwise healthy people inhale or ingest the effects of an infected person’s coughs, sneezes and/or runny noses.
How long is an infected person contagious?
- From 1 day before symptoms appear to 5 days after symptoms appear
- Children and people with weakened immune systems are susceptible for even longer
How can I protect my child from the flu?
- Flu vaccine
- Wash hands properly and often
- Properly cover coughs and sneezes
- Avoid touching face with unwashed hands
What if my child gets the flu?
- See doctor within 48 hours of onset
- Antiviral drugs shorten duration and lessen severity
- Bed rest and lots of fluids
- STAY AWAY FROM OTHERS until temperature is normal for at least 24 hours
