Flu News
FLU VACCINE
Here is the latest information on flu vaccine from the Orange County Health Agency. Also check out general flu vaccine information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
WEEKLY FLU UPDATE
Eye on Influenza
Current summaries of Orange County influenza activity are found in the Eye on Influenza newsletter from the Orange County Health Care Agency:
GENERAL INFORMATION
What is Influenza (Flu)?
Influenza, or flu, is a respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms of influenza include fever (often high), runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, headache, tiredness, and muscle aches. Children may sometimes also have gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Complications of infection with influenza include pneumonia, ear infections, dehydration, and worsening of any underlying medical problems such as asthma, heart conditions, and diabetes. People with chronic medical conditions (including conditions that worsen respiratory function or increase the risk for aspiration), the elderly, pregnant women, and children under 2 years of age are more likely to be hospitalized for influenza and/or have complications from infection. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized each year in the United States due to flu and approximately 36,000 people die.
How does it spread?
Flu is spread by respiratory droplets produced by coughing and sneezing. It usually spreads from person to person but occasionally objects such as a doorknob can become contaminated with the virus and serve as a source of infection also.
What can I do to prevent the spread of influenza?
Vaccination is the best prevention method available.
People who are sick should stay home and avoid close contact with others. Good health habits such as washing your hands often, covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding touching your eyes, mouth, or nose can prevent you and/or others from becoming ill. Antiviral medications are available that can prevent or lessen the severity of influenza infection; however, these medications should only be used for those who are at higher risk of severe illness.
View these CDC fact sheets
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Here are helpful Internet resouces:
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