Fact Sheets

Influenza

WHAT IS IT?

WHY SHOULD I CARE?

Influenza is caused by two main types of viruses – Influenza A and B, which change over time to evade defenses. Infection results primarily in respiratory symptoms, that can progress more seriously in immunocompromised or the elderly and cause death. Flu outbreaks are seasonal with more cases occurring in colder weather months. Illness spreads via respiratory droplets. Hard surfaces contaminated with droplets can pose risks, though this is not the main way flu spreads.
  • 3-5 billion cases estimated to occur globally each year; up to 500,000 die

  • 45 million cases estimated to occur in the US each year; up to 61,000 die

  • 50%: the percent of people vaccinated against influenza in a typical year

  • 6 feet: the distance the flu can be spread through sneezing, coughing, talking Additionally: • People can be infectious, transmit illness about a day before showing symptoms.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

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Fatigue

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Body aches

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Headache

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Fever/Chills

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Stuffy / Runny nose

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Sore
throat

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Cough

WHAT DO I DO ABOUT IT?

  1. Avoid contact with others who are ill.

  2. Cover coughs and sneezes.

  3. Wash hands thoroughly for 20 seconds with soap and water and use hand sanitizer if soap andwater are not readily available.

  4. Clean and disinfect hard surfaces that may be contaminated with flu virus, following labeledinstructions for proper concentration and dwell time.

  5. Anyone ill with flu-like symptoms should isolate from others, as they are most infectious in thefirst 3-4 days of illness.

  6. Antiviral drugs and supportive care can be given to those who have more intense symptoms.

  7. Everyone over 6 months of age should be vaccinated annually. Flu vaccines with varyingefficacies are available each year tailored to include what public health experts believe will be the predominantly circulating strains.
TAG Public Health Experts have the experience and expertise to help companies and institutions successfully integrate science-driven public health approaches into their business strategy.

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