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Nurse giving immunization

PROTECT YOURSELF
AND OTHERS

  • Get a flu shot: The best way to protect yourself from influenza is to get vaccinated against it every year; shots are usually available from October through February.

  • Wash your hands thoroughly and often.

  • Avoid touching your nose, eyes, or mouth.

  • Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough.

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

  • Stay home when you’re sick.

Influenza: Don’t Let It Catch You

Influenza is a contagious, upper-respiratory disease caused by many different strains of influenza viruses. While many people use the imprecise term “flu” to describe 24- or 48-hour bouts of illness, real influenza can interfere with normal daily activities for as long as a week.

Influenza is not a minor inconvenience. As many as 200,000 Americans are hospitalized because of it each year, and as many as 36,000 die of the disease or complications associated with it.

Children under age 1, people 65 or older, and people suffering from underlying medical conditions are at a higher risk of serious complications.

Influenza viruses spread from person to person primarily through the coughing and sneezing of infected persons.

Symptoms
  • Fever (usually high)
  • Headache
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Dry cough
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle aches
  • Sore throat
In some cases, stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, may occur.

If you have questions about influenza, please contact your personal health-care provider or your local health department or check out the resources listed on this page. Or contact the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services Information Center.

Page last updated: 09/19/2006