Influenza or "flu" is a respiratory disease caused by two main types of influenza virus - type A and type B.  It is a seasonal illness that occurs each winter. 

HOW IS INFLUENZA SPREAD?

 Influenza is spread frompersonto person when droplets of moisture from a person with flu are spread through the air when that person coughs, sneezes or talks.  These droplets contain viruses that when inhaled by another person can cause an infection.

HOW DO YOU PREVENT THE SPREAD OF COLD OR FLU

VIRUSES?

COUGH OR SNEEZE INTO YOUR UPPER SLEEVE - NOT YOUR HANDS

• wash your hands thoroughly and often, using soap & warm water
• wash hands at least 5 times per day
• avoid sharing food, eating utensils, towels or handkerchiefs
• keep an alcohol based hand sanitzer (gel or wipes) handy at all times

FAQ

HOW SOON DO SYMPTOMS APPEAR?

Symptoms typically appear 1 to 3 days after exposure to respiratory droplets from an infected person.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF FLU?

Influenza illness ranges fromvery mild to severe, depending on such factors as the influenza strain involved, and the person's susceptibility and general physical condition. Symptoms include: fever, chills, headache, dry cough, and aching in the muscles & joints.  Most people recover within a week after they become ill, although they may continue to feel tired for several days.  Influenza can last longer and cause life-threatening complications in elderly persons, persons with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, heart, lung or kidney disease, or have dieases that weaken the immune system.

HOW LONG IS AN INFECTED PERSON ABLE TO SPREAD INFLUENZA?

An infected person can spread the virus in discharges from their nose & throat from 24 hours before the onset of their illness to 3 - 5 days after the onset of the illness.

HOW IS INFLUENZA TREATED?

Bed rest, drinking increased amounts of fluids, and taking pain relievers help reduce the discomfort of the illness.