<p>Seasonal Flu
What You Need to Know
This information from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
is for VA staff, veterans, their families, and their friends. It describes
facts on seasonal influenza (flu).
Each year in the U.S.,
the flu causes more than
226,000 hospitalizations
and about 36,000 deaths.
!
A flu shot* is
the best way
to protect yourself
against seasonal
influenza (flu).
* Note: Flu vaccine is available as both
a shot and a nasal spray.
To learn more about the flu, visit
www.cdc.gov/flu
www.publichealth.va.gov/flu
U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs
VA Central Office (13B)
810 Vermont Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20420
publichealth@va.gov
This material is NOT copyrighted and may be reproduced.
Gen Audience 8
July 2009
Common
Seasonal Flu Symptoms:
Fever (Usually High)
Cough
Runny Or Stuffy Nose
Sore Throat
Feeling Tired Or Weak
Headache
Muscle Or Body Aches
Stomach Symptoms
(Mostly In Children)
!
Getting A
Flu Shot Can:
PROTECT you, your family,
and your friends from the flu
PREVENT severe illness
and even death
Seasonal flu is a
respiratory illness that:
Is caused by flu viruses that can
change each year
Spreads easily
Occurs each year during fall, winter,
and spring
How does the flu spread?
When a person with the flu sneezes,
coughs, talks, or laughs, the flu virus can
spread into the air as droplets from their
mouth or nose. These droplets can spread
to people and surfaces within 3 to 6 feet.
The flu virus can spread to your hands
if you touch anything that has the
virus on it. If you then touch your eyes,
nose, or mouth, you can get the flu.
How is
seasonal flu
treated?
By getting rest
By using fever reducers
like Acetaminophen (e.g.,
Tylenol®) or Ibuprofen
(e.g., Advil® or Motrin®)**
By taking antiviral drugs
as Needed (From your
healthcare provider)
By drinking fluids
** Brand names included in this information are provided as examples only. Their inclusion does