WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE THE
FLU
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause
mild to severe illness.

Symptoms of flu include:

• fever (usually high)
• headache
• extreme tiredness
• dry cough
• sore throat
• runny or stuffy nose
• muscle aches
• stomach symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (more common
  in children than adults)

Most healthy people recover from the flu without complications.
Symptoms of the flu can last from 3-7 days. If you get the flu:

• Stay home from work or school for at least 24 hours after fever has subsided.
• Get lots of rest, drink plenty of fluids and avoid using alcohol and tobacco.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
  Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water especially after you cough
  or sneeze.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with others.
• Over the counter medications such as Tylenol and/or ibuprofen/naproxen
  can help to relieve the symptoms (but never give aspirin to children or
  teenagers who have flu-like symptoms)
• In certain patients with underlying health problems, flu medication
  (Tamiflu or Relenza) may be helpful. Please consult with one of
  our providers.

Emergency Warning Signs:

In children:

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not waking up and interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
• Fever with rash

In adults:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting