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Influenza:
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Commonly referred to as the Flu.
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Respiratory tract infection caused by one of the influenza viruses.
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3 Different Influenza Viruses:
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Type A (most common)
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Type B (usually associated with milder symptoms)
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Type C
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Each type also has different subgroups or strains, so each year the influenza virus is slightly different and can infect people several times during their lifetime.
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Usually strikes between December and early April.
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Epidemics usually peak in January and February.
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Influenza Prevention:
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Best way to prevent influenza is by getting a Flu shot every October or November.
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Flu shots are about 80% effective in preventing influenza.
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Very few people have side effects.
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About 1% to 2% have mild influenza-like symptoms in the 1st 24 hours after getting the vaccine.
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Contrary to popular myth, you CANNOT get influenza from a Flu shot.
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CDC recommends the Flu shot for the following people:
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All persons age 65 or older
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Household members (including children) of persons in high-risk groups (such as health care workers & employees of hospitals, medical offices, nursing homes, and chronic care facilities)
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Children and adults who have chronic diseases of the heart, lungs, kidneys, diabetes, or any condition that weaken the immune system
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Children and teens who are receiving long-term treatment with aspirin because they are at a higher risk for Reye's syndrome
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Women who will be past the 1st trimester of pregnancy during the Flu season
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Flu shots will begin to provide its protective effect 1 or 2 weeks after receiving the injection.
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Immunity decreases usually after several months.
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Flu shots will not protect all persons against influenza.
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Flu shots will not protect against other illnesses that resemble influenza.
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Dosage: only 1 Flu shot is needed each year for everyone 12 years and older.
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Possible Side Effects:
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most people have no side effects
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Flu shots can be given by injection or nasal mist
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injections are usually given in the muscle of the upper arm often causing fever and aches for 1-2 days
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allergic response, more serious reactions, or even death can occur from the Flu shot
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Warnings:
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people with an allergy to eggs should not get the Flu shot
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people with a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome should not get the Flu shot
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women who are or might be pregnant should discuss the risks with their doctor
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Flu shots should be delayed for illnesses with fever