Flu Season

Your Guide To Getting Through The Flu Season

Flu refers to illness caused by a number of different influenza viruses. The flu can cause a range of symptoms including high fevers, headaches, sore throats, muscle aches, dry cough, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Public health experts continue to warn that the 2009 H1N1 virus (aka swine flu) has the potential to cause widespread, serious illness—even death.

Pregnant women are more susceptible to serious compli­cations from infection with all types of influenza viruses, including the 2009 H1N1. Officials are recommending that expecting mothers be at the front of the line to receive the flu vaccine. Pregnant women comprise 1 percent of the population, yet 6 percent of deaths from H1N1 have been among pregnant women.

Prevention 101

Experts say vaccination is your best possible protection against any influenza virus. Your next best bet? “Wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands,” advises Denise Jamieson, M.D., of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And what about skipping out on Aunt Mildred’s birthday party? You should stay home if you feel sick, but Jamieson doesn’t recommend otherwise altering your daily activities to any great extent. “You can still ride the subway and go to family events,” she says. You may, however, want to steer clear of any unnecessary mass gatherings.

For more information, including breaking news and updates, visit flu.gov.

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