| Flu Facts for Adults
What is Influenza?
Influenza, sometimes called the "flu" is a highly contagious viral infection of the nose, throat, and lungs that ranks as one of the most severe illnesses of the winter season. Influenza is spread easily from person to person primarily when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Influenza may lead to hospitalization or even death, especially for the elderly.
What adults are at risk?
- People 65 years of age and older; Children up to the age of 5.
- Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities housing of any age with chronic medical conditions.
- People with chronic disorders of the lungs or heart.
- People who are less able to fight infections because of a disease they are born with: infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV); treatment with drugs such as long-term steroids; and/or treatment for cancer with x-rays or drugs.
- People, including pregnant women, who have required regular medical follow-up or hospitalization during the preceding year because of chronic metabolic diseases (including diabetes mellitus), kidney diseases, and blood cell diseases such as sickle cell anemia.
- Health care workers and others, including household members, in contact with people in high-risk groups.
What are the symptoms of influenza?
Typical influenza illness is characterized by abrupt onset of high fever, chills, a dry cough, headache, runny nose, sore throat, and muscle and joint pain. Unlike other common respiratory infections, influenza can cause extreme fatigue lasting several days.
How is influenza prevented?
There is a vaccine to protect against influenza. Because the influenza virus changes from year to year, it is important to get vaccinated against influenza on a yearly basis.
Is the vaccine safe?
The vaccine is very safe and effective and generally has few side effects. There may be some soreness, redness or swelling where the shot is given. Other possible mild side effects include a headache and low-grade fever for a day after the vaccination. However, in general, the benefits of being vaccinated far outweigh the risks. You cannot get influenza from the vaccine. |