ALL ABOUT INFLUENZA "THE FLU"

Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year.  Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something, such as a surface or object, with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

Know what to do about the flu-FLU.GOV

Click the link below to find the latest information on flu prevention and treatment, symptoms and populations at special risk from influenza, and much more.

 

CDC Seasonal Flu Information 

 

Key Facts About Seasonal Flu

A summary of key seasonal flu facts and who should get vaccinated...

2011-2012 Flu Season

Information about the 2011-2012 flu season...

2010-2011 Flu Season

Information about the 2010-2011 season...

Symptoms & Severity

Flu symptoms and how some people are at greater risk from severe complications...

People at High Risk from Flu

Some people are more likely to get flu complications that result in being hospitalized and occasionally in death...

How Flu Spreads

How the virus spreads and how long people may be contagious...

Regular Flu Season

General information on regular flu seasons in the United States...

Seasonal Flu and Staph Infections

Information about flu and staph infections, MRSA...

Questions & Answers

• Seasonal Influenza
• Cold Versus Flu
• Seasonal Flu & Staph Infection
• Seasonal Flu & Other Respiratory Viruses
• Seasonal Influenza-Associated Hospitalizations in the United States
• Estimating Seasonal Influenza-Associated Deaths in the United States
• Misconceptions about Seasonal Influenza and Influenza Vaccines

 

CURRENT FLU SURVEILLANCE INFORMATION--INFLUENZA WEEKLY REPORTS

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year.  This page provides information about the 2011-2012 influenza season, including information about the season's vaccines, vaccination recommendations and disease activity.

California Influenza Information

California-specific data and surveillance information as well as other resources are available here.

Stop the Spread Toolkit for Flu Prevention in Clinical Settings

This toolkit focuses on infection control measures clinics and office settings can take to prevent the spread of germs, including influenza. It is designed to assist the medical community in flu preparedness. It has been reviewed by infection control professionals as well as those who work in offices and medical clinics. It includes office and clinic information, patient education materials and an audio slide presentation on infection control measures.  The toolkit is available here.  This presentation requires Microsoft Powerpoint.  Begin the presentation by starting the slide show and the slides will advance on their own.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
CDC Seasonal Influenza Information

California Department of Public Health - Influenza Site
Flu.gov
World Health Organization Influenza Site