Health & Wellness Center
Surviving the Flu Season
Limited amount of flu vaccine still available, first come-first served!
What is the flu?
The flu (influenza) is a highly contagious respiratory infection. When a person with the flu coughs or sneezes the virus can be inhaled by others. If your body doesn't fight it off, you will probably come down with the flu within 1-3 days after exposure.
What is the difference between a cold and the flu?
Both are viral infections. A cold is a minor viral infection of the nose and throat while the flu is usually more severe, with high fevers and body aches. In some cases the flu can lead to more dangerous infections such as pneumonia.
| | Cold | Flu |
| Cause |
Exposure to one of the viruses that attach to the lining of the respiratory tract. |
Any of the numerous strains of the influenza virus. |
| Symptoms |
Starts with scratchy throat, usually followed by sneezing and a runny nose. Can include a cough and fatigue. May include fever. |
Can include a scratchy throat and runny nose. Will include fever, headaches, body aches and pains, chills and pronounced fatigue. |
| Treatment |
Decongestants, antihistamines, cough suppressants and aspirin. Get rest, and drink plenty of liquids. |
Same as with colds, but the emphasis is on getting rest and drinking liquids. |
| What it can lead to |
Weakened immune system can make you more susceptible to bacterial infections, which need medical attention. |
Added risk for bacterial infections. |
| Duration |
Most feel better after a week. |
Can last up to two weeks. |
| How you feel |
Most able to function around the house and at work. |
Many miss up to a week of work or school. |
| Season |
Occurs throughout the year. |
Primarily occurs in the late fall and winter. |
How do I know if I have the flu?
The onset is rapid and accompanied by symptoms (fever, chills, coughing, headaches, fatigue and body weakness).
How can I avoid getting the flu?
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly!
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing!
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth!
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home when you are sick!
- Prevent infection with adequate rest, a healthy diet, exercise and plenty of liquids.
- If you share equipment wipe them off with disinfectant between users.
- Quit smoking and avoid second hand cigarette smoke which irritates the mucous membranes and makes you more susceptible to the flu virus.
If I get the flu, what should I do?
- The flu is a viral infection so attempting to treat it with antibiotics will NOT work.
- Rest is essential along with plenty of fluids (water, clear broth, fruit joice or non-caffeinated tea).
- Eat healthy foods but do not force yourself to eat.
- Take a pain reliever for aches and fever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Avoid multi-symptom remedies, which tend to be less effective and more expensive.
- Contact your physician if symptoms persist!
