INFLUENZA

What is Influenza?

Influenza, or the flu, is a respiratory viral infection. It begins suddenly, lasts for 7-10 days, and goes away. Most people recover completely. However, the elderly, the very young, and the immunocompromised can have a more severe course and even die from complications. Influenza spreads quickly. People get it mostly in fall and winter.

DOs and DON'Ts in Managing Influenza:

The DOs

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  DO get a flu shot every year.


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  DO drink plenty of fluids (at least 8 glasses daily) to thin lung secretions. Small children should avoid milk (it can thicken secretions).


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  DO stop smoking to reduce the risk of complications.


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  DO rest as much as possible. Contiue to rest for 2 or 3 days after the fever goes away.


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  DO wash hands often and have those that care for you wash their hands also. Throw a way all tissues quickly.


• 
  DO call your doctor if your fever or cough worsens, you get shortness of breath or chest pain, you cough up bloody sputum, or you have neck pain or stiffness.


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  DO call your doctor if you have pain with a thick discharge from the ears or sinuses.

The DON'Ts

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  DON'T go to work or school if you think you have the flu.


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  DON'T let anyone with a chronic illness or poor immune system (such as those with AIDS or getting chemotherapy) to come near a person with the flu.


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  DON'T share glasses or eatting utensils.


• 
  DON'T give aspirin to a child younger than 16.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT THE FOLLOWING SOURCES:

Infectious Disease Society of America

Tel: (703) 299-0200

Website: http://www.idsociety.org

National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Tel: (301) 496-5717 (866)284-4107

Website: http://www.niaid.nih.gov

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Tel: (800) 311-3435

Website: http://www.cdc.gov

WHO Collaborating Center for Influenza

CDC Influenza Branch

Tel: (800) 232-4636

Website: www.cbc.gov/flu/