The flu (influenza) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person from droplets released in the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people close by, and can be inhaled into the lungs. They can also live on surfaces for 24 to 48 hours, infecting those who touch the surface and then touch their nose or mouth.

There are three main types of the influenza virus: A, B and C. Types A and B are usually the viruses detected during the Influenza season, which runs between November and April each year.

Symptoms:

• Fever
• Chills
• Cough
• Watery eyes
• Stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Extreme weakness and fatigue
• Earaches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Symptoms will begin about 1-4 days after exposure to the virus; the average is 2 days.

 If you have the flu, stay home from work/school/child care until the fever has resolved and you are well enough to participate in activities.Health care workers should speak to their occupational health department before returning to work.

More Information:

• About the Flu Shot
• View our Influenza Updates page