Flu Facts

Influenza is one of the deadliest vaccine-preventable diseases in America. Take action by proactively learning about the flu.

Influenza 101

Influenza or “flu” is a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract (nose, throat and lungs) that can cause mild to severe illness, and can result in complications that can lead to hospitalization or death. Learn more about this disease in order to properly protect yourself.

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Vaccine Facts

Flu vaccines can reduce the chances of getting sick with the flu by up to 60%. Even if you still get sick, people who are vaccinated have less severe flu symptoms and are less likely to be hospitalized or die from flu-related complications.

Caroline Miller - Survivor
Caroline Miller - Survivor

Flu Prevention

Keep yourself and your family healthy with these simple steps:

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Get vaccinated

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Avoid touching your face

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Wash your hands

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Cough in your elbow

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Wear a mask

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Disinfect surfaces

Warning Signs

If a child or adult is experiencing any of these symptoms, please seek medical care and request a flu diagnostic test.

These lists are not all-inclusive. Please consult your healthcare provider for any symptoms that are severe or concerning.

Emergency Warning Signs for Children

Flu can present differently in children, so it’s important to know when to seek medical attention for a child who is suffering from flu. If a child has any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.

  • Fast Breathing or Trouble Breathing
  • Bluish Lips or Face
  • Ribs Pulling in with Each Breath
  • Chest Pain
  • Severe Muscle Pain (Child Refuses to Walk)
  • Dehydration (No Urine for 8 Hours, Dry Mouth, No Tears When Crying)
  • Not Alert or Interacting When Awake
  • Seizures
  • Fever above 104°F
  • In Children less than 12 Weeks Old, any Fever
  • Fever or Cough that Improves but then Returns or Worsens
  • Worsening of Chronic Medical Conditions (Asthma, Diabetes)

Emergency Warning Signs for Adults

Some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick. This includes people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), and pregnant people.

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Persistent dizziness, confusion, inability to arouse
  • Seizures
  • Not urinating
  • Severe muscle pain
  • Severe weakness or unsteadiness
  • Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen
  • Worsening of chronic medical conditions

 

Warning signs listed are from CDC.

Influenza Treatment

  • Avoid close contact with other people in your home.
  • If you need to leave your home or be in contact with others, wear a mask.
  • Ask to get tested for flu. Flu symptoms can look like many other illnesses and testing is the only way to know for certain.
  • Take antiviral medications if prescribed.
  • Know when to seek medical attention - Most people with flu will recover without complications. However, if you are in a high risk group or are very sick or worried about your condition, seek medical attention.

Chronic Conditions & Sepsis

Sepsis is the body’s reaction to an uncontrolled infection, which can be bacterial, viral, or fungal in nature. These infections can cause a chain reaction in your body, causing tissue damage, organ failure, and even death. It is critically important to seek immediate medical attention if sepsis is suspected.

 

Anyone, regardless of health status, can fall victim to sepsis. People with chronic conditions, such as diabetes or lung disease, older adults, and young children are especially vulnerable to developing sepsis. 

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