- Influenza, or "the flu," is an infection of the respiratory
tract caused by a virus. Compared with most other viral
respiratory infections, such as the common cold, influenza
infection causes a more severe illness. Typical flu symptoms
include fever (usually 100ºF to 103ºF in adults), respiratory symptoms such as cough, sore throat, runny
or stuffy nose, as well as headache, muscle aches, and often
extreme fatigue.
- Almost everyone
will benefit from a flu shot. But some people have a greater
need and should make a special effort to get this
protection each year. The following is a listing of all
people who are at risk for flu-related complications:
- People 65 years old or older (even if you are in excellent
health, you have a greater risk of complications if you
get the flu).
- People with chronic (on-going) health problems including:
asthma or other on-going lung problems; kidney disease;
heart disease; or diabetes.
- People with an illness (such as HIV/AIDS) or who are taking medication (such as chemotherapy) that can lower the immune system.
- There is no
cure for the flu (Influenza), however it can be prevented
by being immunized with a flu shot in the fall. If the person
does not get a shot in the fall, he or she should get one
in the winter - it is not too late.
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