Influenza (Flu)

Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. People get sick from seasonal flu viruses every year. Flu can cause illness ranging from mild to severe and in some cases can lead to hospitalization and even death. In New England, flu season usually begins in December and lasts until April. Most people who get the flu will have a fever plus a cough or a fever plus a sore throat. Other symptoms may include runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea. (more)

Flu Prevention

Vaccination is the best way to prevent the flu and avoid spreading it to others at high risk of flu-related complications. Everyday actions can also help prevent the spread of germs that cause the flu.

Flu Treatment

Most people recover without needing medical care, but some people may require antiviral medications or get very sick and require hospitalization. (more)

H1N1 Flu

H1N1, also called “swine” flu, is a pandemic flu virus that emerged in April 2009. Pandemic flu occurs when a new flu virus develops. Since most people do not have any immunity to new viruses, these viruses can spread quickly and infect many people at the same time. Unlike seasonal flu, so far, H1N1 flu appears to infect younger people at a higher rate than older people, who may have some existing immunity from previous infections and vaccinations. (more)

Flu Surveillance

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