Seasonal Flu
What is seasonal flu?
Influenza (“flu”) is a virus that typically affects the nose, throat, and lungs. The illness usually lasts between three and seven days and symptoms include fever, headache, cough, aches and sore throat.
Seasonal flu is a respiratory illness caused by an influenza virus, which spreads easily from person to person. Following are some key facts about seasonal influenza*:
- Each year about 10% of the population becomes ill with seasonal flu.
- For most, the illness is unpleasant but not life threatening.
- The very young and those over 65 years old are at greater risk of serious complications. So are those with:
- HIV/AIDS
- Cancer
- Other chronic conditions, such as kidney, lung or heart disease
- Annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect against seasonal flu.
What is the difference between pandemic influenza and seasonal influenza?
Seasonal outbreaks (epidemics) are caused by subtypes of influenza viruses that are already in existence among people, whereas pandemic outbreaks are caused by new subtypes or by subtypes that have never circulated (spread) among people or that have not circulated among people for a long time. Past influenza pandemics have led to high levels of illness, death, social disruption, and economic loss.
Community Based Seasonal Flu Clinics for 2009-2010
County sponsored seasonal flu clinics for the 2009-2010 flu season will be held the month of October. Free seasonal flu shots are available to persons ages 60 years or older and to younger persons with a doctor's verification of chronic illness. . In addition, FluMist nasal spray vaccine will be offered at these clinics to nonpregnant, healthy 2-49 year olds who do not have a history of wheezing or asthma. Community members who do not fit into the above age or health categories should contact their primary care provider to obtain a seasonal flu shot. Click here for the seasonal flu clinic schedule.
Additional Information on Seasonal Flu