Flu Facts

SYMPTOMS: Fever or chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, fatigue, vomiting and/or diarrhea

SPREAD: Primarily by respiratory droplets released during coughing, sneezing or talking, but also by touching a surface contaminated with the flu virus, then touching the mouth, nose or eyes

POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS: Pneumonia, dehydration, respiratory distress, ear infection, sinus infection and worsening of existing chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, congestive heart failure or asthma

AT-RISK POPULATIONS: Young children, pregnant women, elderly, individuals with chronic health conditions or weakened immune systems and individuals living in long-term care facilities such as a nursing home

PREVENTION: Vaccination, frequent hand washing, proper sneezing/coughing techniques, staying home when sick and maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine to boost immunity

Which is it-Cold or Flu?

“Both the common cold and flu are viral infections with similar symptoms and means of prevention,” said Dr. Hallal Henderson. “However, flu symptoms are typically more severe and longer lasting.” Below are tips to determine whether you might be dealing with a cold or flu virus.

Symptoms	Cold	Flu
Fever	Sometimes; usually mild; short lasting and more likely in children	Common; usually higher (above 101o F); lasts 3 to 4 days
Headache	Occasional	Common
General Aches/Pains	Slight	Common and often severe
Fatigue/Weakness	Sometimes	Common; can last 2 to 3 weeks
Extreme Exhaustion	Rare	Common
Stuffy Nose	Common	Sometimes
Sneezing	Common	Sometimes
Sore Throat	Common	Sometimes
Cough	Common; mild to moderate	Common; can become severe
Vomiting/Diarrhea	Rare	Occasional