NEWS LETTER:

It's time to prepare for THE FLU.

Anyone can get the flu, but young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with weakened immune systems and those with chronic illnesses are especially vulnerable.

Orgins:

Flu viruses travel through the air in droplets when someone with the infection coughs,sneezes or talks.  You can inhale the droplets directly or you can pick up the germs from an object, such as telephones, pens or computer keyboards and then transfer them to your eyes, nose or mouth.

Symptoms:

*Fever over 101F(38c) in adults and often as high as 103 to 105(39.5 to 40.5c) in children

* Chills and sweats

*Headache

*Dry cough

*Muscular aches and pains, especially in your back,arms and legs

*Fatigue and weakness

*Nasal congestion

*Loss of appetite

*Diarrhea and vomiting in children

Risk Factors:

*You're at increased risk for influenza or its complications if you:

*Are an infant or young child

*Are over age 50

*Have a chronic disorder, or HIV infection

*Work in a health care facility where you're more likely to be exposed to the flu virus

*Are in regular, close contact with infants or young children

*Pregnant women

Complications:

If you are young and healthy, influenza usually is not serious.  Although you may feel miserable while you have it, the flu usually goes away with no lasting effects.  High-risk children and adults may develop complications such as:

*Ear infections

*Acute Sinusitis

*Bronchitis

*Pneumonia

*Encephalitis

During a flu epidemic you should stay away from crowds and wash your hands well and frequently.  We would recommend that all kitchenware be put through the dishwasher.

Tips for fighting the flu:

*Get a seasonal flu shot vaccine each year

*Wash hands often and well

*Stay strong,eat right and get enough physical activity

*Do not share items that could spread flu germs

*Stay at least six feet away from others if you or they are coughing and sneezing

*Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or upper sleeve

*Ask your health care provider if you need to take any special precautions

If you would like to request this brochure in it's entirety, please go to our Contact Us section to make your request.