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Influenza and Pneumonia

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• Additional Resources

Influenza (the flu) is a respiratory illness, which is spread mainly through coughing or sneezing. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious complications, including pneumonia.

Pneumonia is an infection of the lung. Bacterial pneumonia is the most deadly type. The air sacs in the lungs fill with pus and other liquid. Oxygen has trouble reaching your blood. If there is too little oxygen in your blood, your body cells can't work properly. Because of this and spreading infection through the body, pneumonia can cause death.

The risk of death from pneumonia or influenza is higher for people with heart disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems such as from AIDS.

Vaccines offer the best protection against these illnesses. Hand washing and good hygiene also can prevent the spread of germs that can lead to illness:

• Influenza vaccine—A yearly flu shot is up to 90 percent effective in preventing influenza in healthy adults under the age of 65. October or November is the best time to get the flu shot.

• Pneumococcal vaccine—This vaccine that can reduce the risk of getting pneumonia by more than half. It is recommended for adults older than 65 and some younger adults. Usually only one dose of the vaccine is needed. Ask you doctor if you need this vaccine.

Additional Resources

Publications

1.   Cold or Flu. Antibiotics Don't Work For You - This brochure briefly explains the difference between bacteria and viruses and how bacteria become resistant. It also answers some common questions about when it is and is not appropriate to use an antibiotic.

   www.cdc.gov/drugresistance/community/

2.   Fight Flu and Pneumonia - This publication gives answers to questions about the flu, such as the symptoms and cause of infection. It also provides information on when to get a flu shot and when to receive treatment for the flu.

   http://www.medicare.gov/health/fludetails.asp

3.   Flu (Influenza) - This fact sheet provides information on the transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of the flu. It also discusses flu vaccines, including recommendations and side effects.

   http://www3.niaid.nih.gov/topics/Flu/understandingFlu/Default.htm

4.     If You Have Diabetes, A Flu Shot Could Save Your Life - This brochure provides information about why it's important for someone with diabetes to get a flu shot.

   http://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/projects/pdfs/eng_brochure.pdf

5.   Seasonal Flu - This website brought to you by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) contains the latest information about influenza (flu). It contains links to vaccination, infection control, clinical description and diagnosis, treatment, lab diagnosis, and background information. The website provides patient and provider education as well as references and resources.

   http://www.cdc.gov/flu

6.   What to Do for Colds and Flu - This publication discusses the importance of knowing the difference between the cold and flu and knowing when to call your doctor. It also provides some ideas on how to avoid getting sick and advice on medications one should take if they do become ill.

   http://www.fda.gov/opacom/lowlit/clds&flu.html

7. Find a Flu Clinic (Copyright © ALA) - To find a flu clinic in your area, enter your zip code into the flu clinic locator. You will get the date, hours of operation, address, and phone number of the clinics offering flu shots near you, as well as a map showing where the clinic is located.

   http://www.flucliniclocator.org

8. Pneumonia (Copyright © ALA) - This publication explains what pneumonia is and what the different causes are. It also provides information on how it is treated, how you can prevent it, and what to do if you have the symptoms of pneumonia.

   http://www.lungusa.org/site/c.dvLUK9O0E/b.4061173/apps/s/content.asp?ct=3052571

9. Pneumonia (Copyright © MFMER) - This publication gives an overview of pneumonia and lists the signs, symptoms, causes, and risk factors. In addition, it discuses when you should visit your doctor, what kind of treatment is available, and how you can prevent it.

   http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/pneumonia/DS00135

Organizations

1.   National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases , CDC, OPHS, HHS
2.   National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, HHS
3. American Lung Association
4. National Foundation for Infectious Diseases

= Indicates Federal Resources