The Flu
Alternate Names : Flu, Influenza A, Influenza B, Influenza C
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The Flu Prevention
A yearly flu vaccine is recommended for those people in the high-risk categories. The vaccine is also recommended for people who work with (or live with) others at high risk.
People at high risk include:
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People over 50 years of age
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Children aged 6 to 23 months
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Women more than 3 months pregnant during the flu season
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Anyone living in a long-term care facility or institution
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Anyone with chronic heart, lung, or kidney conditions, diabetes, or weakened immune system
Anyone can get the flu shot if they want to lower their chances of getting the flu, as long as they:
Some people, particularly those at high risk, who have been exposed to influenza may benefit from antiviral medication and vaccination.
The FluMist nasal spray is an alternative for healthy, non-pregnant people age 5 to 49 who want to be protected. Unlike the regular vaccine, it is a live virus. Therefore, it is best if the person receiving it does not have close contact with people who have a weakened immune system. Common side effects in children include runny nose, headache, vomiting, muscle aches and fever. Adults often have runny nose, sore throats and cough, but no vomiting or fever. It reduces the chances of getting the flu by 92 percent, resulting in fewer missed days of work or school, and fewer visits to the doctor.
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