Influenza and Pneumonia

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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.

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Additional Resources

Publications

Fight Flu and Pneumonia — This publication answers common questions about the flu. It discusses who should get a yearly flu shot and when and when to seek treatment for the flu.
http://www.medicare.gov/health/fludetails.asp
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/
If You Have Diabetes, a Flu Shot Could Save Your Life — This brochure explains why getting a yearly flu shot is important for people with diabetes. It also provides basic information on the vaccine and where to go to get a flu shot.
http://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/projects/pdfs/eng_brochure.pdf
Seasonal Flu — This web site features up-to-date information on influenza (flu). It provides links to immunization, infection control, clinical description and diagnosis, treatment, lab diagnosis, background information and other resources.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu
What to Do for Colds and Flu — This publication describes the differences between the common cold and the flu and explains when a call to the doctor is needed. It also provides tips to avoid getting sick and advice on medications you can use to relieve symptoms.
http://www.fda.gov/opacom/lowlit/clds&flu.html
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
Pneumonia (Copyright © ALA) — This publication explains what pneumonia is and its causes, how it is treated, and how you can prevent it. It also tells what to do if you have symptoms of pneumonia.
http://www.lungusa.org/site/c.dvLUK9O0E/b.4061173/apps/s/content.asp?ct=3052571
Pneumonia (Copyright © MFMER) — This publication provides an overview of pneumonia and lists the signs, symptoms, causes, and risk factors. In addition, it discuses when you should visit your doctor, available treatments, and how you can prevent it.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/pneumonia/DS00135

Organizations

= Indicates Federal Resources

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