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	Texas Department of State Health Services Centers for Disease Control

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Influenza Information

Signs and Symptoms

• Sudden high fever
  
• Cough
  
• Sore throat
  
• Sudden onset of body aches
  
• Headache
  
• Sudden fatigue
  

Influenza is thought to be spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Some people become infected by touching something with the flu virus on it and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes. People are considered contagious one day before they develop symptoms and up to 7 days after they become ill.

What can I do to prevent myself from getting Influenza?

A vaccine is currently available to protect from the flu virus. The vaccine this season does protect against the H1N1 virus. Take the following steps to protect your health:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and throw it in the trash after you use it. OR
  
• Cough or sneeze into your sleeve so that the virus is trapped in your clothing and you do not spread the virus to your hands.
  
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Wash with warm water and scrub your hands for 15-20 seconds. Alcohol-based sanitizers are also effective.
  
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth; germs spread this way.
  
• Do not eat, drink or smoke after others.
  
• Try to avoid close contact with those who are sick.
  
• Stay home if you are sick.
  

What do I do if I am sick?

Prepare ahead, have a thermometer, a supply of over-the-counter medicines, alcohol-based hand sanitizers and tissues available.

If you have the flu you may be sick for a week or longer. Unless necessary for medical care you should stay home and minimize contact with others for 7 days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom free for 24 hours.

If you have the symptoms described, call the Health Center (710-1010) to schedule an appointment for evaluation. At this time you can request to talk to a nurse if you have any questions. After clinic hours there is a 24 hour nurse answer line for information, you can access this by calling 710-1010.

If you have any of the following symptoms seek urgent medical attention:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  
• Sudden dizziness
  
• Confusion
  
• Severe or persistent vomiting
  
• Flu-Like symptoms which have improved but then return with fever and worsening cough