Flu & Flu Vaccine
What is the flu?
Seasonal influenza, or “the flu,” is a contagious infection of the nose, throat and lungs that is caused by the influenza virus. Sometimes people confuse cold and flu, which share some of the same symptoms and typically occur at the same time of the year. However, the two diseases are very different. Most people get a cold several times each year, and the flu only once every several years. Flu infections are primarily respiratory infections.
Who is at risk for the flu?
Everyone is susceptible to seasonal influenza, or “the flu.” An estimated 25 million to 50 million cases of the flu are currently reported each year. While flu shots are recommended for everyone, they are strongly encouraged for those at highest risk for the flu including:
- People over 50,
- Children between six months and two years,
- Women who are more than three months pregnant during the flu season,
- Anyone living in a long-term care facility and
- Anyone with chronic heart, lung or kidney conditions, diabetes or a weakened immune system.
How can I prevent the flu?
Most experts recommend getting a flu shot in October or November. Experts also recommend several other steps to stay healthy during the flu season such as frequent hand washing, drinking plenty of water or liquids, and coughing or sneezing into a shirt sleeve instead of the hands.
How does the flu shot work?
The flu shot helps your body fight the viruses that cause the flu. It does this by teaching your immune system to recognize flu viruses, so that it is “primed” or ready, to fight the disease if you are exposed to it.
How well does the flu shot work?
In scientific studies, the effectiveness of the flu shot has ranged from 70% to 90% in healthy people younger than age 65 when there is a good match between circulating viruses and those in the vaccine.
Where can I get my flu shot this year?
Adventist HealthCare's “Take Your Shot for Health” campaign will include numerous flu shot clinics throughout Montgomery County, including:
| Learn More About the Flu |
| Symptoms |
Fever - may be high, Headache, Tiredness, Dry cough, Sore throat, Stuffy, congested nose, Muscle achesand stiffness, Other symptoms may include: Nasal discharge, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Croupy cough, Chills, Fatigue, Malaise, Sweating, Loss of appetite, Vomiting, Dizziness, and Worsening of underlying illness, such as asthma or heart failure. |
| Encyclopedia |
Flu, Pneumonia, Influenza Vaccine |
| Tools & Resources |
Flu Videos
Flu Quiz
Germ Prevention |