Flu facts

From the Logan County Department of Public Health

[February 22, 2011]  Although young people ages 10-24 tend to be perceived as "young and healthy," they are not immune to getting influenza. The flu is a viral respiratory infection that can cause a more severe illness than that of the common cold. Symptoms of the flu are coughing, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, fever, headaches, body aches, chills, and fatigue.

Fortunately, the flu and its unpleasant effects can be avoided by getting the flu shot, practicing healthy hygiene, getting adequate sleep, avoiding contact with those who are sick and taking care of yourself if you become ill.

The Logan County Department of Public Health encourages the practice of the 3 "C's":

• Clean your hands frequently.

• Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue or use your elbow.

• Contain your germs by staying home if you are sick.

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 clinic hours Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. until 4 p.m., or 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.flu.gov and www.lcdph.org.

[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.