Influenza, the Flu
Why is influenza (flu) so serious?
Influenza, or the flu as it's often
called, is a serious virus that can make people very ill and can cause
death. Many people say they have the flu when they're not feeling well
and may be vomiting or have diarrhea. However, the true flu is much
more than that.
Someone with the flu is very ill; they have chills, fever, muscle
aches, and a bad cough. The cough is the dangerous part of influenza as
many people end up developing pneumonia. This is one of the ways that
the flu can be so deadly. Another danger to the flu is dehydration. If
someone is too sick to take in fluids, dehydration could set in quickly.
Influenza vaccine, offered for free in Quebec to seniors and people
with chronic illnesses, as well as some other groups, is your best
prevention against getting the flu. It's not perfect prevention, but it
does decrease your risk.
Speak to your doctor about if you should have a flu shot during the
vaccination period.
If
you have any further questions about influenza or any other subject
matter, please don't hesitate to contact us.
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