Influenza

                

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Influenza is caused by a virus that spreads from one infected person to another.
Influenza can cause:
fever · sore throat · chills· cough · headache · muscle aches
Anyone can get influenza. Most people are ill with influenza for only a few days, but some get much sicker and may need to be hospitalized.
Influenza causes an average of 36,000 deaths each year in the U.S., mostly among the elderly.
 
When to Get Vaccinated
October or November is the best time to get vaccinated, but getting vaccinated in December or even later can still be beneficial. Flu season can begin as early as October and last as late as May.
 
Who Should Get Vaccinated
In general, anyone who wants to reduce their chances of getting the flu can get vaccinated. However, certain people should get vaccinated each year. They are either people who are at high risk of having serious flu complications or people who live with or care for those at high risk for serious complications.
 
Who Should Not Be Vaccinated
Some people should not be vaccinated without first consulting a physician. They include:
 
People who have a severe allergy to chicken eggs.
 
People who have had a severe reaction to an influenza vaccination in the past.
 
People who developed Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) within 6 weeks of getting an influenza vaccine previously.
 
 
If you have questions about whether you should get a flu vaccine, consult your health-care provider or visit CDC’s website at www.cdc.gov/flu