Influenza (also called the flu) is caused by the Influenza Virus, either type A or type B, although type A causes more significant symptoms.  Influenza can be a potentially fatal illness that often masquerades as a common cold thus making it imperative to differentiate it from other upper respiratory infections.  The symptoms are often similar, but many children and adults are hospitalized annually with Influenza, although the majority of cases can be treated at home.

Symptoms usually develop quickly and include diffuse body-aches (to the point of feeling like you have been hit by a truck), fever (frequently in the 103 range), runny nose, sore throat, and cough. Many infected people are too sick to even get out of bed and often describe it as the "worst cold I have ever had."

The best way to avoid getting the flu is to get the flu shot, avoid people who are sick with the flu and begin treatment quickly (within 48 hrs) if you have someone in your home diagnosed with Influenza.

It is also important to note that you cannot get sick from the flu shot. The material in the shot does not contain live virus. If you get sick after a flu shot it is likely because you have coincidentally contracted another infection. The flu shot, although very good at preventing the flu is not foolproof and does not prevent you from developing influenza with 100 percent certainty since there is a degree of mutation within the virus.

You can get a flu shot, testing for the flu infection, and flu treatment at Lone Tree Acute Care Center.  It is important to seek medical treatment for the actual illness  immediately since medications must be started within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms in order for treatment to be effective.

Think you have the flu?

What are the symptoms?

Know the FACTS

Fever

Aches

Chills

Tiredness

Sudden symptoms

You don't need to experience all of these symptoms to have the flu. If you have one or two, we recommend you see a doctor.

In general, anyone who wants to reduce their chances of getting seasonal flu can get a seasonal influenza vaccine. However, it is recommended by ACIP that certain people should get vaccinated each year. They are either people who are at high risk of having serious seasonal flu-related complications or people who live with or care for those at high risk for serious seasonal flu-related complications. During flu seasons when vaccine supplies are limited or delayed, ACIP makes recommendations regarding priority groups for vaccination.

People who should get the seasonal vaccine each year are:

1. Children aged 6 months up to their 19th birthday

2. Pregnant women

3. People 50 years of age and older

4. People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions

5. People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities

6. People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including:

A. Health care workers

B. Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu

C. Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated)