Understanding the Flu
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year. Understanding the flu and its symptoms is the first step in preventing its spread.
Symptoms of the Flu
Flu symptoms typically come on suddenly and can include:
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Fever or feeling feverish/chills
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Cough
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Sore throat
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Runny or stuffy nose
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Muscle or body aches
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Headaches
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Fatigue (tiredness)
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Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
How the Flu Spreads
The flu primarily spreads through droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Less often, a person might get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes.
Preventive Measures
To reduce your risk of getting and spreading the flu, follow these preventive measures:
1. Get Vaccinated
The flu vaccine is the most effective way to prevent the flu. It's recommended for everyone six months of age and older.
Benefits of Flu Vaccination
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Reduces flu illnesses: Vaccination prevents millions of flu-related illnesses and thousands of flu-related hospitalizations each year.
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Protects vulnerable populations: By getting vaccinated, you help protect people around you, including those who are more vulnerable to serious flu illness, like babies, young children, the elderly, and people with certain chronic health conditions.
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Lowers severity: Even if you do get the flu after getting vaccinated, the vaccine can make your illness milder.
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Flu Season
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Estimated Flu Illnesses Prevented
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Estimated Flu Hospitalizations Prevented
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Estimated Flu Deaths Prevented
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2019-2020
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7.5 million
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105,000
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6,300
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2018-2019
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4.4 million
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58,000
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3,500
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2017-2018
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6.2 million
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91,000
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5,700
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Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
2. Practice Good Hygiene
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Wash hands frequently: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
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Avoid touching your face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
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Cover coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or the inside of your elbow to cover your mouth and nose. Dispose of tissues properly and wash your hands immediately.
3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
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Healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to boost your immune system.
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Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, and broths.
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Regular exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to keep your body strong.
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Adequate sleep: Ensure you get enough restful sleep each night to support your immune system.
4. Stay Informed and Be Prepared
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Stay updated: Follow local health department updates and guidelines regarding flu activity in your area.
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Have a plan: Prepare for potential flu outbreaks by having necessary supplies on hand, such as medications, tissues, and hand sanitizers.
5. Practice Social Distancing
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Avoid close contact: Maintain a safe distance from others, especially if they are showing flu symptoms.
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Limit gatherings: Reduce your exposure to large groups of people during peak flu season.
6. Clean and Disinfect
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Regular cleaning: Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and electronic devices.
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Use appropriate cleaners: Follow manufacturer instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products.
Q&A
Q: How effective is the flu vaccine?
A: The effectiveness of the flu vaccine can vary each year based on the match between the vaccine and circulating flu viruses. On average, flu vaccines reduce the risk of flu illness by 40% to 60% among the overall population during seasons when most circulating flu viruses are well-matched to the flu vaccine.
Q: Can you get the flu from the flu vaccine?
A: No, you cannot get the flu from the flu vaccine. Flu vaccines are made with either inactivated (killed) viruses or with only a single gene from a flu virus, which cannot cause illness.
Q: Who should not get a flu vaccine?
A: People with severe, life-threatening allergies to flu vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine should not get vaccinated. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
Q: Is it too late to get vaccinated if the flu season has already started?
A: No, it is not too late to get vaccinated. Vaccination can still be beneficial as long as flu viruses are circulating. Flu season can last until late spring, so getting vaccinated later can still provide protection.