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    Flu Facts

    Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu (influenza) is to get a vaccine each year.

    What is the "Stomach flu?"
    Although often used to describe illnesses with nausea, vomitting or diarrhea, the "stomach flu" isn't influenza. These symtoms are commonly caused by gastroenteritis.

    How serious is it, and who is at most risk?

    Each year in the U.S., about 200,000 people are hospitalized due to flu complications; children 5 years old and younger make up 20,000 of those hospitalized; and 36,000 people die from seasonal flu.

    Highest risk:

    • Elderly
    • People with chronic health conditions


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    What are the symptoms?

    Adult symptoms may include:

    • Temperature of 100°F or above
    • Cough
    • Body aches, chills
    • Headache
    • Sore throat
    • Tiredness (fatigue)
    • Feeling lousy all over
    In children symptoms are similar to those in adults although children tend to have higher temperatures than adults and nausea and vomiting or stomach pain.

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    What should I do if I get sick?

    • Stay home and get plenty of rest.
    • Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce fever. Do not give children aspirin.
    • Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
    • Keep separate from other members of the household.
    • If the illness is severe or you are at high risk for flu complications, contact your doctor or seek medical care.


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    When should I call the doctor?

    Adults
    Adults call the doctor if you have:

    • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
    • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
    • Sudden dizziness or confusion
    • Severe or persistent vomiting
    • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough


    Children
    Call the doctor if your child shows sings of:
    • not drinking enough fluids
    • not urinating or no tears when crying
    • Severe or persistent vomiting
    • Being so irritable that the child cannot be consoled
    • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
    Seek emergency care if your child has bluish or grey skin color, has fast or labored breathing, is sleepy and cannot be awakened, or cannot interact with you.

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    Is there a vaccine, and who should get it?

    The seasonal flu vaccine is available now. Most adults and children – except infants under 6 months – should be vaccinated to reduce the chance of getting the flu and help stop the spread of the virus.
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