Influenza, or the flu, can cause serious health risks, including death. A person with the flu is also at risk of other infections like pneumonia, an infection of the lungs.
Your best defense is to get your flu shot. This year’s flu shot will give you protection against the most common strains of influenza viruses.
You may be eligible for a free flu shot. If you are not eligible, contact your family physician or local pharmacy about vaccine availability and cost.
- Get a flu shot.
- Stay home when you’re sick or have influenza symptoms.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Do not cough or sneeze into your hands - use your upper arm or a tissue.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizers.
About Influenza
Influenza, often called the 'flu', is an infection of the nose, throat and lungs caused by an influenza virus. People often use the word ‘flu’ when they have a cold or 'stomach flu’. But these are different than influenza.
Symptoms
Influenza symptoms can include fever, headache, muscle pain, runny nose, sore throat, extreme tiredness, and cough. Children may also experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Symptoms can begin about one to four days after a person is first exposed to the influenza virus. Fever and other symptoms may last up to seven to ten days, with the cough and weakness lasting up to two more weeks.
Visit the Symptom Checker on the HealthLink BC website to learn more.
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School Absenteeism Report - This form is to be completed by school principals or designates on each day when school absenteeism is significantly increased.