The flu is a contagious respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. Most healthy people recover from the flu without complications. However, in an average year, the flu causes 30,000 deaths and 200,000 hospitalizations in the United States, mostly among people 65 years or older.

People at Risk

The following people may be at risk for serious complications from the flu:

• People over 65
• Young children (under 2 years)
• Pregnant women
• People with chronic medical conditions such as:
  • Arthritis
  • Asthma
  • Cancer
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  • Diabetes
  • Dialysis patients
  • Emphysema
  • Heart disease and stroke
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Transplant patients

Flu Symptoms

Symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Tiredness
• Headache
• Congestion
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Vomiting and diarrhea can occur but are more common in children

Complications caused by the flu include:

• Pneumonia
• Dehydration
• Worsening of chronic medical conditions

How the Flu is Spread

When a person with the flu coughs or sneezes, droplets containing the influenza virus are released into the air. The droplets can be inhaled by healthy people nearby and cause infection.

Occasionally a person may become infected by touching a surface with contaminated by the flu virus (door knob, faucet, etc.) and then touching their eyes, mouth or nose.

Symptoms of the flu usually occur within one to three days after a person has been exposed to the virus.

If You Get The Flu

Stay home when you are sick

• You can infect others one day before getting symptoms and up to five days after getting sick. You may be spreading the flu without even realizing it.
• Get plenty of rest, and seek medical attention if you do not feel better in a few days.
• Change linens frequently.
• Do not share eating utensils, drinking glasses, towels or other personal items.
• Keep household surfaces clean.
• Avoid using alcohol and tobacco.

Flu Medicine

Antiviral Medications

Prescription antiviral medications approved for treatment of the flu may provide some benefit if started within two days of the first symptoms of flu. See your doctor as soon as symptoms appear if you are interested in antiviral medication.

Antibiotics are not effective against the flu virus.

Over the Counter Medicine

Over the counter medications may relieve the symptoms of the flu.

Never give aspirin to children or teenagers with flu-like symptoms, particularly fever, because it has been associated with a dangerous illness called Reye syndrome.

There is no scientific evidence that any vitamins, herbal, homeopathic or other folk remedies have any benefit against the flu.

Where can I get more information?

For more information contact your doctor, the Southern Nevada Health District, Office of Epidemiology at (702) 759-1300 or the Immunization Clinic at (702) 759-0850.