Influenza Patient Information

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What is the Flu?
The flu is caused by a virus that infects your nose, throat, and lungs. It’s easily spread from person to person.

Symptoms of the flu include:


 * High fever


 * Headache


 * Tiredness


 * Runny nose


 * Cough


 * Muscle aches

What health problems can the flu make worse?
The flu can also make some health problems worse. These health problems include:


 * Asthma or other lung problems


 * Diabetes


 * HIV/AIDS


 * Heart disease

Who should get a flu shot?
Get a flu shot every year if you are age 50 or older. For many people, the flu is a mild illness. But in older adults, the flu can sometimes lead to


 * Serious infections like pneumonia


 * Hospitalizations


 * Death

This is especially true for older adults with:


 * Diabetes


 * Heart disease


 * Breathing problems

The best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu shot.

When should I get the flu shot?
October or November is the best time to get a flu shot, but you can still get the shot in December or later. Flu season can last as late as May.

Are there any side effects?
Side effects from the flu shot are mild. Some people feel sore at the spot where they got the shot. There is no reason to worry. You cannot get the flu from the flu shot. The flu shot is made from dead flu virus that will not cause the flu.