About care management
The benefits and results
Health care quality at Aurora
The steps we take and how we're measured
Need help researching?
Ask an Aurora librarian
Return home
Return to the care management home page

 

 

Facts about the flu

What is influenza?

Influenza (commonly called ‘the flu') is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.

How is the flu spread?

The main way that influenza viruses go from person to person is through “droplet spread.” This happens when droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person are propelled (up to 3 feet) through the air and deposited on the mouth or nose of people nearby. The virus can also spread when a person touches respiratory droplets and then touches their own mouth or nose before washing their hands. Studies have shown that adults can give a virus to others from 1 day before getting symptoms to 5 days after getting sick. Children can be infectious for about 10 days. Persons who are have weakened immune systems can be infectious for weeks or months.

How do I know if I have the flu?

Symptoms of a cold are sometimes mistaken for the flu. Here are some guidelines; call your health care provider if you have further questions about your symptoms.

Symptom Cold Flu
Fever Rare in adults, can be up to 102 F in small children Usually 1020 F, but can go up to 104 F and last 3-4 days
Headache Rare Sudden onset, can be severe
Muscle aches Mild Usual, often severe
Tiredness, weakness Mild Can last 2 or more weeks
Extreme exhaustion Never Sudden onset, can be severe
Runny nose Often Sometimes
Sneezing Often Sometimes
Sore throat Often Sometimes
Cough Mild hacking cough Usual, can become severe
Nausea and vomiting Rare Rare

Does cold weather cause the flu?

No. Viruses cause colds and flu. Viruses tend to be more prevalent in the winter months.

How long does the flu last?

Influenza illness typically resolves after 3 to 7 days for the most people, although cough and fatigue can persist for 2 weeks or longer. Influenza can worsen underlying conditions and lead to secondary illnesses.

Can I prevent myself from getting the flu?

The single best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated each fall.

What about the pneumonia shot? Will it help protect me from the flu?

The pneumonia shot will NOT prevent the flu, but it helps prevent the complication of pneumonia for anyone who gets the flu. This shot is generally recommended for people age 65 and older and people over age 2 who have long-term health problems or weakened immune systems. Talk with your doctor about whether a pneumonia shot is right for you.

Besides being vaccinated, what else can I do to avoid the flu?

Here are some simple steps you can take to help stop the spread of germs and protect yourself and others:

  • Stay healthy – Get plenty of sleep, eat a well-balanced diet, engage in physical activity, and manage your stress.
  • Protect yourself and others – Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and avoid spreading germs to others by staying home when you are sick and covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
  • Wash your hands often
  • Understand your symptoms – See the above chart to compare cold symptoms with flu symptoms.

Looking for more information?

DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this site is intended for general information and educational purposes. It is not intended to replace the advice of your own physician. Contact your physician if you believe you have a health problem.

 
 


Copyright Aurora Health Care, a Wisconsin-based health care provider.
3000 W. Montana St., Milwaukee, WI 53215, (414) 647-3000
Disclaimer | Privacy notice | Contact us
.