Self Care Articles

Is this your symptom?

• You have symptoms of influenza (Flu) and it's in your community
• Main symptoms: fever AND one or more respiratory other symptoms (cough, sore throat, very runny nose, muscles pains, fatigue, headache)
• Influenza (Flu) is a viral infection
• You think you have influenza because other family members or close friends have it

Symptoms of Influenza

• Main symptoms are a fever with a runny nose, sore throat, and bad cough.
• More muscle pain, headache, fever, and chills than with usual colds. Fatigue (tiredness) also affects many people; some have diarrhea and vomiting.
• If there is no fever, you likely don't have flu. More likely it is a cold.

Cause of Influenza

• Influenza viruses that change yearly

Diagnosis: How to Know You Have Influenza

• Influenza occurs every year in the fall and winter months. During this time, if flu symptoms occur, you probably have the flu.
• You don't need any special tests.
• Call your doctor if you are High-Risk for complications of the flu. See the list below. These are the people who may need prescription anti-viral drugs.
• Low-Risk people usually don't need to see a doctor. If you develop a complication of the flu, then call your doctor. See the "What to Do" section.

High-Risk for Complications from Influenza 

People are considered High-Risk for complications if they have any of the following:

• Lung disease (such as asthma)
• Heart disease (such as a congenital heart disease)
• Stroke
• HIV/AIDS
• Cancer or weak immune system conditions
• Neuromuscular disease (such as muscular sclerosis)
• Diabetes, sickle cell disease, kidney disease or liver disease
• Diseases needing long-term aspirin therapy
• Pregnancy or severe obesity
• Adults older than 65 years are considered High-Risk (CDC)
• Racial and ethnic minority groups
• Note: all other adults are referred to as Low-Risk