A few simple steps can prevent the spread of flu as well as other respiratory illnesses. Staying at home when you are sick, especially during the holidays when large gatherings are frequent, and using respiratory etiquette are all effective ways to limit the spread of influenza. Respiratory etiquette includes frequently washing your hands with soap and warm water, and covering your mouth with a disposable tissue when you sneeze or cough. To learn more please click here [PDF 1.7M] (Cover your Cough poster )
Remember, getting a flu shot in November, December, or January is not too late! Peak flu season in Arizona is usually in February or March.
Get the facts (en español) about the flu shot - Protect yourself. Protect your loved ones.
Click here for Flu Toolkit information.
How can I tell if I have the
flu or a cold ?
Since initial symptoms of the flu (influenza) and colds are similar, it can sometimes be difficult to tell if you have the flu or a very bad cold. Influenza, unlike a cold, is a serious illness that can have life-threatening complications. Check this table for a comparison of the symptoms for each illness:
|
Symptoms |
Cold |
Flu |
|
Fever |
rare in adults and older children, but can be as high as 102° F in infants and small children |
usually 102° F, but can go up to 104° F and usually lasts 3 to 4 days |
|
Headache |
rare |
sudden onset and can be severe |
|
Muscle aches |
mild |
usual, and often severe |
|
Tiredness and Weakness |
mild |
often extreme, and can last two or more weeks |
|
Extreme exhaustion |
never |
sudden onset and can be severe |
|
Runny nose |
often |
sometimes |
|
Sneezing |
often |
sometimes |
|
Sore throat |
often |
sometimes |
|
Cough |
mild hacking cough |
usual, and can become severe |
What should I do if I have the flu?
If you have the flu (or a temperature of 100.4º F or higher), it is important to stay home, drink plenty of fluids, cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing, and wash your hands frequently. If symptoms get worse seek medical attention.
Parents should contact their health care provider immediately if they have any concerns about their child’s recovery. This would include a child having problems breathing, being too sleepy, or not taking enough fluids.
DO NOT give aspirin to children for treatment of flu symptoms because of the risk of Reye syndrome, an acute and potentially life-threatening condition that results when children take aspirin or aspirin-containing products during certain viral illnesses.What can I do to protect myself and my family from the flu?
Influenza is spread through coughing and sneezing. You can decrease your chances of getting the flu or cold by frequently washing your hands and avoiding touching your nose, eyes, and mouth. It is important to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. If you have flu-like symptoms, stay home from work or school to avoid infecting others. Parents should try to keep babies and young children away from people who have flu-like symptoms.
