Influenza

Fever, chills, fatigue, body aches, sore throat, and headache are common symptoms of flu. Not everyone with flu will have a fever. The flu can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can cause severe respiratory complications.

Tips for Preventing the Spread of Influenza

  • Get your flu shot!
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol based hand sanitizer. Help young children to do the same.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that are touched frequently, like toys, door knobs, and phones.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs are spread this way.
  • Avoid close contact with sick people.
  • Stay home when sick. Do not return to work or school until 24 hours after your fever ends.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue.

Complications from Flu

Many people don't know if they are at high risk for complications from influenza. Some of the people who are at higher risk for complications from influenza include:

  • People with asthma
  • People with diabetes
  • People with heart disease and those who have had a stroke
  • Adults 65 and older
  • Residents of long term care facilities
  • Pregnant women
  • People who have HIV or AIDS
  • People who have cancer
  • Children younger than 5, but especially children younger than 2 years old

For a complete list of those at risk of serious complications to the flu please refer to the CDC's website. Those at high risk should see their doctor as soon as possible after symptoms begin to find out if they are a candidate for antiviral treatment. Antiviral medications can shorten the course of illness and prevent life threatening complications.

About the Vaccine

Get your flu shot! It's not too late! Influenza season usually peaks in February, but can last into May. Flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months of age or older. This year the flu vaccine is a good match to the circulating strains. According to the New York State Department of Health, most cases of severe influenza complications have occurred in unvaccinated individuals.

Yates County Public Health has flu vaccine available. Call 315-536-5160 to find out if you are eligible.