No Time to Get the Flu. . .
Influenza is a contagious disease caused by a virus that attacks your throat, nose and lungs. It is vaccine-preventable and causes death for 36,000 Americans each year. Compared to an estimated 600 SARS deaths worldwide, it’s clear that influenza is much more dangerous than just a fever, muscle aches and chills. In fact, the flu’s overall impact is considerable, causing 38 million lost school days and 70 million lost workdays in the U.S. every year.
Sometimes the flu is confused with a cold because of similar symptoms. Here are some ways the flu is different:
The flu comes on suddenly, while a cold comes on gradually.
You have a fever. Your temperature is usually around 102 F (and may go as high as 104) and lasts three to four days. With a cold, you may be sneezing and feel uncomfortable, but your temperature isn’t likely to rise that significantly.
You have a splitting headache – something uncommon with a cold.
You have a cough and muscle aches. A dry cough is one of the main symptoms, as well as the body aches. Colds may cause a mild hacking cough and mild muscle aches.
You feel totally exhausted and feel like staying in bed. With a cold you are often able to continue functioning.
Just remember that everyone experiences symptoms differently and if you have concerns, be sure to see a health care professional.
The flu spreads by coughing and sneezing, sending it into the air where others may breathe it in. Infected children may spread the virus for six to seven days, adults for three to five days. The best time to get the flu shot is in October or November. Protection develops about two weeks after getting the shot and may last up to a year. You may still get the flu if you get the vaccine, but you will probably get a milder case.
Serious problems from flu vaccine are rare. The viruses in the flu shot have been killed, so you can’t get influenza from the vaccine. A common complaint after getting vaccinated is soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Also fever and aches. If these problems occur, they usually last only one to two days. Anyone who is seriously allergic to eggs or a previous dose of influenza vaccine, or has a history of Guillan-Barre Syndrome should not get the shot. If you have a fever or are ill at the time the shot is scheduled, you should wait until you recover before getting the vaccine. This year’s vaccine contains A/New Caledonia, A/Panama and B/Hong Kong.
This year USM Health Services will be offering flu vaccine beginning the week of Oct. 20. The cost is $15 for students, free for employees with Anthem and $15 for employees without Anthem. Call to make an appointment on either campus!
Portland 780-4211
Gorham 780-5411
Sources:
www.cdc.gov
www.flumist.com
Sheera LaBelle can be contacted at [email protected].