For Information on H1N1 Flu, Please click here.

What is the flu?

Influenza (commonly called "the flu") is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It affects people of all ages, and while it is often fairly mild, it can be severe and on occasion, people will die as a result of the virus, or a complication related to the virus. The best known current method for reducing risk and even preventing contracting the flu is to seek an annual vaccination. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), every year in the United States, 5% to 20% of the population gets some variation of the flu; with more than 200,000 people hospitalized, and approximately 36,000 people who die from the disease. Those most at risk are young children, older persons, and those with certain health conditions. 

Why is a flu outbreak such a concern?

The key for the medical community is understanding the source of each variation of the disease, and knowing how to combat it. When a new strain of the flu emerges, that is cause for great concern. In particular, recent strains of the flu have proven to be resistant to treatment. If a strain of the flu emerges that is easily transmitted between humans and for which there is no treatment, a huge percentage of the population will be at risk.

How does the flu affect people? And how do we pass it along?

According to the CDC, the primary way that influenza viruses are spread is from person to person in respiratory droplets of coughs and sneezes. This can happen when droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person are propelled through the air and deposited on the mouth or nose of people nearby. Influenza viruses may also be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets on another person or an object and then touches their own mouth or nose (or someone else’s mouth or nose) before washing their hands. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning one (1) day before symptoms develop and up to five (5) days after becoming ill. Children may pass the virus for longer than seven days. Symptoms start one to four days after the virus enters the body. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.  Some persons can be infected with the flu virus but have no symptoms. During this time, those persons can still spread the virus to others.

How do we reduce our chances of getting the flu?

There are a number of steps you can take to avoid many strains of the flu. The CDC recommends an annual flu shot. To learn more about getting a flu vaccination: Click Here. 

When a previously unknown or rapidly spreading variety of the flu emerges, then it is time to consider some basic preventative measures. These include:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people. Wear a mask if you have access to one.
• If you get the flu, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. It's one of the best ways for germs to enter your body.

Learn more...

There are many resources out there regarding the flu and what you can do to reduce the risk of serious complications from this disease. For additional information, consider some of these resources:

• US Government Flu website: flu.gov
• Website for Avian Flu Information
• For Parents: Seasonal Flu Information
• For Health Professionals: Seasonal Flu Information
• For Los Angeles Residents: Flu Reduction Tips from the Los Angeles Fire Department
• If you get the flu: Treatment for the Flu

An, always know that your local urgent care facility is staffed with professionals who can help you if you become ill. In addition, if you feel ill, it is a good idea to consider staying home. It is natural to want to continue to work, go to school, and so on, but exposure to others is how the flu spreads. If you are concerned about your health, keep yourself in a safe place. Always consider others and know that there are multiple resources available, including MySafe:LA, to help you understand what you're dealing with.