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?
- Talk with your health care provider
- Find a doctor
- Find out about the Aurora VNA flu clinics