Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year.

Influenza (flu) can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu is different from a cold. Flu usually comes on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:

• fever* or feeling feverish/chills

• cough

• sore throat

• runny or stuffy nose

• muscle or body aches

• headaches

• fatigue (tiredness)

• some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

*It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.

For more information visit Flu and COVID-19 Symptoms

Most experts believe that flu viruses spread mainly by tiny droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Less often, a person might get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose or possibly their eyes.

Anyone can get flu (even healthy people), and serious problems related to flu can happen at any age, but some people are at high risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick. This includes people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women, and children younger than 5 years.

The first and most important step in preventing flu is to get a flu vaccine each year. Flu vaccine has been shown to reduce flu related illnesses and the risk of serious flu complications that can result in hospitalization or even death. CDC also recommends everyday preventive actions (like staying away from people who are sick, covering coughs and sneezes and frequent handwashing) to help slow the spread of germs that cause respiratory (nose, throat, and lungs) illnesses, like flu.

• ​​Hand washing is always the body’s best defense against infection.  Wash hands frequently and thoroughly

• Bathe daily with soap and water

• Avoid touching your eyes, mouth or nose with unwashed hands

• Stay away from people who are sick

• Get plenty of rest

• Exercise often

• Practice good nutrion

• Drink plenty of fluids

• ALWAYS COUGH OR SNEEZE IN YOUR SLEEVE

• Stay home and avoid contact with people other than seeking medical care.

• Treat symptoms with anti-virals if prescribed by your physician and OTCs that DO NOT contain aspirin

• GET A FLU VACCINE EVERY YEAR!

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Last reviewed: August 26, 2021
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm

Texas Department of State Health Services
Last updated: September 2, 2021
https://www.dshs.texas.gov/flu/

With both flu and COVID-19 circulating this season, getting a flu vaccine is more important than ever. Learn more about what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones on the CDC website:

• FAQs: Flu and COVID-19

• Getting a Flu Vaccine during the COVID-19 Pandemic

• Similarities and Differences between Flu and COVID-19

For more information about COVID-19, see dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus.