Flu facts
Protect yourself. Get the facts. Get the flu shot.
The flu is highly contagious. Children, seniors and people living with chronic disease are more vulnerable to the flu and are at a greater risk of serious illness and even death.
With the triple threat of the flu, as well as COVID-19 and RSV circulating, it’s more important than ever to get the shot.
Ask your doctor about the flu shot
Everyone who is six months or older should get the flu shot. It not only protects you if you are exposed, but it also prevents you from passing it to others. Doctor offices, clinics and pharmacies are available to administer the flu shot and you are also encouraged to be up to date with your eligible COVID-19 shots.
Five things to know about the flu
- There is more than one strain of the flu
- You can’t get sick from the flu vaccine
- Antibiotics are never needed for the flu. The flu is a virus and antibiotics are for bacterial infections
- Treat symptoms with rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications
- The flu shot is the best defense and suitable for anyone six months and up
What’s the difference between a cold and the flu?
Here’s a look at the symptoms associated with each:
|
Symptoms |
Flu virus (Influenza) |
Cold virus (Rhino virus) |
|---|---|---|
|
Nasal congestion |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Sore throat |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Severe cough |
Yes |
No |
|
Sneezing |
Yes |
No |
|
Body aches |
No |
Yes |
|
High fever (39°or above) |
Yes |
No |
How do I tell the difference between COVID-19 and the flu?
If you feel sick or have any symptoms, even if mild, you should stay home.
The flu and COVID-19 have similar and overlapping symptoms and only a COVID-19 test can confirm that you do not have COVID-19. In some cases, a test to see if you have influenza can also be ordered. Generally, common COVID-19 symptoms include, but are not limited to, a sore throat, new or worsening cough, fever, shortness of breath, headache and fatigue that develop gradually over a few days and last for up to two weeks. Common flu symptoms include a high fever, cough and muscle aches and pains that develop quickly and last for about a week.
More ways to protect yourself
- Wash your hands with soap and water frequently and thoroughly, especially before eating
- Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available to wash your hands
- Clean and disinfect common surfaces that a lot of people touch
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with your hands
- Cough and sneeze into your upper sleeve or bend of your arm, not into your hand
- Ask your doctor for more information about the flu