INFLUENZA
THE FACTS ABOUT INFLUENZA

What is Influenza?

Influenza or "flu" is an infection of the respiratory trat that can affect millions of people every year. It is highly contagious and occurs mainly in the late fall, winter,or early spring. Influenza is spread from person-to-person through mists or sprays of infectious respiratory secretions caused moderate to severe illness, loss of school and work, and complications such as pneumonia,hospitalization, and death.

Influenza is caused by a virus called the influenza virus. Viruses are the smallest form of life and, unlike bacteria, can only reproduce in the living cells which they infect. There are three types of influenza viruses, influenza A,B and C. Influenza A can infect humans and other animals while influenza B and C infect humans. Influenza C virus causes a very mild illnes and does not cause epidemics.

Common Symptoms:
Fever (up to 104 F)
Chills(sometimes shaking)
Muscle aches and pains
Sweating
Dry Cough
Nasal congestion
Sore throat
Headache
Fatigue

The best way to protect yourself from influenza is to receive an annual influenza immunization.The influenza vaccine is an inactivated(killed) viral vaccine. To manufacture the vaccine, Influenza viruses are grown in chicken eggs, harvested, and then killed through chemical means. The vaccine is then purified and tested for purity,safety,and its ablility to stimulate protective antibody in humans.

The strains which are chosen to be included in the vaccine are those which scientists have determined will be the predominant strains during the current influenza season.