Flu Facts
What is the Flu? The Flu is also called Influenza (In-flu-en-za) It is caused by an infection of the Nose Throat And lungs
Seasonal Flu Illness that can spread from person to person Every winter Same Pandemic Flu Illness that can spread from person to person Global outbreak Different Most people have some immunity Different Most people have little immunity
What is the H1N1 flu? A new and different flu It was called swine flu at first because it has pieces of flu viruses found in pigs in the past It does not make pigs sick.
What is happening with H1N1 Started in Mexico in 2009 Continues through late Spring, Summer which is unusual. Affecting children and young adults Adults over 65 probably have some protection.
Flu Sudden onset Hit by a truck Fever Aches and Pains, Headache Feeling tired Cough Sore throat Runny nose
The flu lasts 3-7 days
How does the flu spread? Mostly from person to person through the coughs and sneezes of people who are sick Droplets are heavy and drop to the ground.
How is the flu spread? Hand to nose, mouth, eyes
! People infected with the flu can infect others 1 day BEFORE they get sick! And 5 to 7 days after getting sick Might be longer in some people especially children and people with weakened immune systems
How serious is the flu? The flu can be very serious Especially for young children, the elderly and anyone with medical problems like: Asthma Other lung problems Diabetes Weakened immune system Kidney disease Heart problems Neurological and neuromuscular programs
The Good News Most people feel better from the flu within one week Some people get pneumonia or other serious illnesses. Some people have to go in the hospital. Some people die from the flu.
Cough can last for 2-4 weeks after flu If someone gets better and then gets sick again, go to the doctor Especially if have a fever again
Wash your hands often Use soap and water-especially after you cough or sneeze If there is no soap and water- alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective Rub until hands are dry!
Avoid touching Eyes Mouth Nose
Made of: dead or weakened flu virus cells. Works with the part of your body that fights infection - immune system. Flu Vaccine
Flu Vaccine Flu I remember you!
There are 2 kinds of vaccines Nasal weakened live vaccine. The Shot- dead vaccine.
Can not give you the flu! If you have an egg allergy (serious) you can not get the vaccine. Most people will not get the flu. If someone does get the flu it is usually a milder case. Take 2 weeks after the shot to protect you from the flu. The Flu Vaccine
Vaccine Side Effects Nasal Children mild problems are runny nose, cough, headache, fever, wheezing, muscle aches, abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhea. may experience one or more. Adults runny nose, cough, chills, tiredness/weakness, sore throat, headache may experience one or more.
Vaccine Side Effects If these problems occur, they usually begin soon after shot is given and last 1 2 days. Shot (flu) soreness, redness or swelling where shot was given. Hoarseness, sore, red or itchy eyes, cough fever or aches Shot (H1N1) soreness, redness or swelling where shot was given. Fainting (seen in adolescents) Headache, muscle aches, fever or nausea
Why do we need a flu The flu virus changes a little every year. shot every year? This is because as the virus spreads it changes. Scientists look at the virus and make a new flu shot for each year.
Is there treatment for the flu? Most people do not need treatment for the flu. People who are very sick do need treatment for the flu.
What if my child is sick If your child is under 5 call your doctor If your child is any age and has asthma, diabetes or neurological problem call your doctor
Seasonal Flu 1. All children 6 months and older 2. All older adults (50 years and older) 3. Everyone else
Target Groups for H1N1 Babies under 6 months cannot get vaccine 1) Pregnant Women 2) People who live with or are caregivers of infants less than 6 months old 3) Health Care and Emergency Workers
Target Groups for H1N1 4) Persons 6 months to 24 years old 6 months thru 9 years need two doses
5) Adults 24-65 years
6) Adults over 65
What can we do Stay calm and informed www.cdc.gov X
What can we do? Stay home if you are ill 24 hours without a fever without Tylenol or Aspirin Or 5 days
Take care of yourself if you are sick Wash hands often and try to stay away from others. Rest Drink plenty of fluids especially water
Chicken Soup
What can we do Keep away from people who are sick (6ft)
What can we do Wash hands frequently Get the vaccines Where can I get the Flu Vaccine? Doctor s Office City/town clinics Walgreens/CVS (pay$$)
Keep surfaces like bedside tables, bathroom and kitchen counter and toys for children keep by wiping with household cleaner (follow directions)
Keep Healthy