Influenza, also known as the flu, is an illness caused by a virus that is contagious and easily spread from person to person. Different types (strains) of the flu virus cause illnesses each year.
How does the flu spread?
· Breathing in air from an infected person who coughs, sneezes or laughs less than three feet away.
· Touching your mouth, nose or eyes after you touch something that an infected person touched, sneezed or coughed on. Germs can live for up to two days on hard surfaces (toys, tables, phones, doorknobs, etc.).
· An infected person can infect others before they know they’re sick and for at least a week after getting sick.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
Common symptoms include:
· Fever or chills
· Head, muscle and body aches
· Sore throat and cough
· Diarrhea or vomiting
· Weakness and tiredness
· Runny or stuffy nose
How to prevent the flu?
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
· Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for 15 to 20 seconds and wipe down hard surfaces that may have germs on them.
· Stay away from people who are sick and keep your child at home if they’re sick.
· Practice good health habits to keep your immune system strong.
The Flu Vaccine
· The best way to help prevent the flu and keep you and your family healthy is to get the flu vaccine. Anyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu vaccine each year.
· Minor aches and a low-grade fever are common after getting the vaccine.
If your child still needs their flu shot, it’s not too late! The flu shot is offered in all our Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s school-based health centers to all students and their siblings. Call (614) 355-2590, option 3, to schedule an appointment or visit NationwideChildrens.org/Care-Connection to find a location.
