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Background
Information
Influenza, also
known as the flu, is an illness that causes fever, headache,
tiredness, cough, sore throat, headache, nasal congestion and body
aches. It is usually spread from person to person by coughing and
sneezing. Seasonal flu is different from
H1N1 (Swine) flu.
Influenza is
different from the common cold. It usually begins suddenly and can
put you in bed for a number of days. Most people who get influenza
will recover in one to two weeks, but some people can develop very
serious illnesses such as pneumonia, be hospitalized or die. Very
young children, people age 65 years and older and anyone with a
chronic medical problem are most at risk of serious illness.
The flu is caused
by a virus, so antibiotics like penicillin do not work to cure it.
Seasonal Flu
Seasonal flu
outbreaks usually follow a predictable, seasonal pattern – usually
in the winter. Vaccines are developed based on known flu virus
strains and are available each year. Seasonal flu usually has a
modest impact on society. The best way to prevent the flu is by
getting a flu shot every year.
CDC Seasonal Flu Information
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