2008-2009
Influenza Policies
Flu Prevention Facts
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The flu can cause mild to severe illness and even death.
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Influenza usually occurs during the winter and causes 36,000 deaths per year in
the United States.
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Influenza viruses cause disease among all age groups.
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Serious illness and death are highest among people 65 years and older and
children less than 2 years old.
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Most healthy people recover from the flu without complications.
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Influenza is spread primarily through sneezing and coughing.
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Contaminated objects (hands, phones, shared eating utensils) can also spread
the flu.
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Close contact (within 3 feet) is usually required for transmission.
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You can spread the virus for up to two days before showing symptoms.
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Once ill, you'll be contagious for about 5 days.
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The flu usually lasts 3-7 days for most people, although some symptoms can last
for up to 2 weeks. Antiviral drugs are sometimes used to reduce the symptoms of
influenza but viruses may develop resistance to them.
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Antibiotics are not effective against the flu because the flu is caused by a
virus
Get vaccinated for flu each fall.
It's the best force protection measure against influenza.
Other ways to help prevent the flu:
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Avoid close contact with people who are sick and keep your distance or stay
home
if you are sick
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Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough then put used tissue
in the waste basket
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Clean you hands often with soap and warm water or alcohol based gels to protect
yourself from germs
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Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth because germs are often spread when you
touch something that is contaminated and then touch your eyes, nose or mouth
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For
more information about influenza and its prevention visit these websites:
Seasonal Influenza Resources
CDC
Influenza Information
CDC Preventing the Flu
CDC
Key Facts about Seasonal Influenza
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