Influenza
Flu season is coming! There already have been a few cases in the United States. The CDC recommends getting your flu shot by the end of October. Remember, it takes 2 weeks for your body to make antibodies to protect you from the flu after receiving your flu shot.
Children who receive the flu vaccine decrease the risk of flu-associated death by 65%.
Is it a Cold or Flu?
Source: CDC
| Signs & Symptoms | Cold | Flu |
|---|---|---|
| Symptom Onset | Gradual | Abrupt |
| Fever | Rare | Usual |
| Aches | Slight | Usual |
| Chills | Uncommon | Fairly Common |
| Fatigue, weakness | Sometimes | Usual |
| Sneezing | Common | Sometimes |
| Stuffy nose | Common | Sometimes |
| Sore throat | Common | Sometimes |
| Chest discomfort, cough | Mild to moderate | Common |
| Headache | Rare | Common |
You should keep your child home if they have a fever.
Remind your child to cover their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze. Tissues should be thrown in the trash immediately after use and hands should be washed with soap.
Places to get your flu shot:
- Your family doctor
- Local pharmacies, usually at no cost with most insurances
- Brown County Public Health