What is the Flu?

The flu is an infection caused by the flu virus. When you have the flu, you will have a fever (usually 100ºF to 103ºF in adults, and sometimes higher in children) and symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, muscle aches, fever, and extreme tiredness. These problems look similar to the ones for common colds, but the symptoms are more intense especially with muscle aches and fever. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose, which is rare with the flu.

How do I get the flu?

Flu viruses are spread by droplets produced when people with the flu cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. A person might also get the flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it. Then when you touch your mouth or scratch your nose, the virus can pass to you and make you sick with the flu.

What can I do to prevent getting the flu?

The most important thing you can do to prevent the flu is to wash your hands frequently. Washing your hands washes the virus away (and it eventually dies on its own), leaving your hands clean and free of flu viruses.

Another important thing to remember is to use your arm to cover your mouth when you cough instead of your hands. Avoid touching things that many people touch, and throughout the day avoid moving your hands to your mouth, eyes, or nose.

Getting a yearly flu shot can also help you avoid getting the flu. You can get the flu shot from us anytime. Feel free to ask us about it.