UNDERSTANDING INFLUENZA:
What's Up with the Flu?
FluMist is approved for eligible people aged 2 to 49. Please scroll down for eligibility information and exclusionary conditions.
Every year in the United States, on average:
- 5 to 20 percent of the population get the flu
- Approximately 4 million children get the flu
- $1.7 billion is spent on medical costs for children with the flu and an additional $2.1 billion is spent in indirect costs like missing work to care for sick children
HOW SERIOUS IS THE FLU?
Each year, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu‑related complications.
For more info on the seasonal flu, go to: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/keyfacts.htm
What happens when I get the flu?
If you're exposed to influenza, symptoms may appear out of the blue. Chills are often the first indication that you've got the flu, and fever of over 100° F is very common. You may experience a sore throat, dry cough, and headaches, as well as an achy feeling in your legs and back. Sometimes, the flu leaves patients feeling so ill, weak, and tired that they remain in bed for days.
The "Stomach Flu"
If you've heard people talk about "stomach flu," we're here to let you know that it's not actually the same as influenza, or a disease caused by the influenza virus. A disease commonly referred to as "the stomach flu," or incorrectly as "the flu," it's caused by a virus or bacteria that invades your body, and primary symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea. With influenza you may, in rare instances, experience vomiting as well, but the major difference is that influenza or the flu can lead to severe respiratory problems. These may include difficulty breathing and pneumonia. Be sure to check with your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.
When is flu season?
Winter is generally considered peak flu season, with most outbreaks occurring in January and February. But sometimes flu cases can occur as early as October-November or as late as April.
