Influenza, commonly called "the flu" is a contagious disease caused by the influenza virus, which infects the nose, throat and lungs. The flu usually comes on suddenly and is not a cold. It may include these symptoms: · Fever · Headache · Dry Cough · Body Aches · Sore Throat · Nasal Congestion · Fatigue (sometimes extreme)

How is the influenza virus passed around?

The flu is spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks, sending the flu virus into the air, and other people inhale the virus. The virus enters the nose, throat, or lungs and begins to multiply, causing symptoms of the flu. Less often, flu may be spread when a person touches a surface that has flu viruses on it - a door handle, for instance - and then touches his or her nose or mouth.

How long is a person with flu virus contagious?

Adults may be contagious from 1 day prior to becoming sick and for 3-7 days after they first develop symptoms. Some children may be contagious for longer than one week.

How serious is the flu?

While some persons who get the flu may recover in 1-2 weeks, some persons may develop life-threatening complications, such as pneumonia. The CDC states persons 65 years and older, persons of any age with chronic medical conditions, and very young children are more likely to get complications from the flu.

Guidelines suggest a Pneumococcal vaccine for anyone over 50 years of age.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange for an on-site vaccination date. The optimal time for flu vaccine is mid September through early December. We will be happy to supply you with "Flu" posters and literature. We are anxious to accommodate your first choice for dates, so please call soon.