Flu Tips

What is the flu?
It's influenza, an infection of the nose, throat and lungs caused by a virus. Flu viruses often infect the lungs, but they can infect other parts of the body. Flu and colds are both caused by viruses, but flu symptoms are more serious and the potential for complications is greater.

Will there be a flu season this year?
There always is a flu season! Late Fall/Early Winter is the best time to receive your flu shot.

What should I know about the flu?
It is a serious illness that can make you very sick. A person with flu is contagious for several days.

Who needs flu shots?
Most people. Everyone 50 years of age and older, especially people over age 65. This year, flu shots are suggested for children, four and older; anyone who has a serious long-term health problem with heart disease, lung disease (asthma, bronchitis, TB, emphysema, cystic fibrosis, etc.), diabetes, chronic kidney disease, severe anemia, conditions that make it hard for the body to fight off infection. Women who are past the 3rd month of pregnancy, physicians, nurses, family members, or anyone else who is in close contact with people at risk of serious influenza should also have a flu shot.

What are flu symptoms?
Flu symptoms usually begin one to four days after being infected with the flu virus. The symptoms can be mild or severe depending on the person and the type of flu. The symptoms include chills and shaking, fever, headache, aching muscles and joints, loss of appetite, weakness, sore throat and runny nose.

How can I protect myself against the flu in addition to receiving a flu shot?
Wash your hands often. Avoid crowds whenever possible. Don't share towels or washcloths, silverware, cups, glasses, straws, razors. Use disposable tissues. Use a humidifier. Lead a healthy lifestyle.

Do I need a flu shot every year?
Absolutely, because every year there's a new vaccine; flu viruses change from year to year. The shot you received last year won't protect you this year.

Will I have side effects from the shot?
Most likely not. Some people may have a little redness, tenderness or swelling where the shot was given. In rare cases a person may have a slight fever, chills or headache. These symptoms usually pass within a few days. If you are allergic to eggs, or if you're pregnant, talk to your health care provider before receiving a flu shot.

If I catch the flu, what should I do?
You can do some things to relieve your symptoms and feel better. Stay in bed because rest will help your body recover; drink lots of liquids to replace fluids lost from fever; use cough medicine to help you sleep better; stay warm; use a humidifier; avoid tobacco and alcohol; take a pain reliever making sure to avoid side effects by reading the directions; don't take antihistamines which can work against flu.

Does VNSW give flu shots?
Yes, primarily to personnel at companies, schools and day care centers. For more information, call Jill Foscaldi at VNSW (682-1480, extension 618).

Disclaimer: All information is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for advice by your physician. You are advised to consult your physician regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations appearing here.

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