Flu facts

From the Logan County Department of Public Health

[November 15, 2010]  Most respiratory bugs come and go within a few days, with no lasting effects. However, some cause serious health problems. Although symptoms of colds and flu can be similar, the two are different.

Colds are usually distinguished by a stuffy or runny nose and sneezing. Other symptoms include coughing, a scratchy throat and watery eyes. No vaccine against colds exists because they can be caused by many types of viruses. Colds come on gradually and are often spread through contact with mucus.

Flu comes on suddenly, is more serious and lasts longer than colds. The good news is that yearly vaccination can help protect you from getting the flu. Flu season in the United States generally runs from November to April.

Flu symptoms include fever, headache, chills, dry cough, body aches, fatigue and general misery. Like colds, flu can cause a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. Young children may also experience nausea and vomiting with flu.

The combined seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccine is available at the Logan County Department of Public Health for anyone 6 months of age and older through walk-in clinics hours Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. and on the HOPE Mobile during its regularly scheduled stops.

For more information on the seasonal influenza vaccine, call the Logan County Department of Public Health at 217-735-2317.

For more information, visit www.fda.gov and www.lcdph.org.

Sponsored by the Logan County Department of Public Health and the Pandemic Influenza Community Coalition.

[Text from file received from the Logan County Department of Public Health]

Announcement sponsored by the Logan County Department of Public Health and the Pandemic Influenza Community Coalition.