What is influenza?

Influenza (also called flu) is a viral infection in the nose, throat and lungs. Most people get over it in 1 to 2 weeks. But some people get very sick. The flu can lead to serious, even life-threatening conditions such as pneumonia or dehydration. Each year, about 130,000 people go to the hospital with the flu. About 35,000 people a year die. The flu may come on suddenly and feel like the worst cold of your life. It can cause fever, cough, sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches, and sometimes extreme tiredness. Diarrhea and vomiting can also occur but are more common in children. These symptoms are called flu-like because a lot of different illnesses can have symptoms.

How is it passed?

The flu spreads from coughing and sneezing. The droplets can be passed though the air but more often are passed by shaking hands or touching something that has been sneezed of coughed on. The virus enters your system when you then touch your eyes, mouth, or nose.

Things you can do to lower your risk of getting the flu:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• If you are exposed to someone who may have the flu, try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth until you can wash your hands.
• Get enough rest and exercise.

Talk to your chiropractic physician for other suggestions.