INFORMATION ON SEASONAL FLU
CHECKLIST – COLD OR FLU?
| COMMON SYMPTOMS | COLD | FLU |
|---|---|---|
| Fatigue | – | Yes |
| Fever (over 100°) | – | Yes |
| Muscle Aches | – | Yes |
| Joint pain | – | Yes |
| Loss of appetite | – | Yes |
| Headache | – | Yes |
| Cough | Yes | Yes |
| Stuffy nose | Yes | Maybe |
| Diarrhea or Vomiting | – | Maybe |
How the Flu Spreads
- People who have the flu pass it on by coughing and sneezing.
- Droplets from the coughs and sneezes carry virus germs through the air.
- Those germs can land on doorknobs, faucets, stair rails and other surfaces.
- The next person who touches that surface can pick up the germs… and then touch his or her mouth… nose… eye…
- And give the flu virus a new home.
How the Flu Feels
Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly and may include:
- Fever (>= 100°)
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache
- Muscle or body aches
- Fatigue
- Possibly vomiting or diarrhea
How to Lower the Risk for Yourself and Others
- Wash your hands.
- When you can’t wash your hands, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
- Anytime you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth.
- Keep your hands away from your face.
- If someone is sick, avoid close contact.
- If you feel sick, stay home from school, work, and other public contact.
Who Should See a Doctor?
Most people can rest and recover from the flu at home. Call your doctor’s office:
- If you are pregnant
- If you have a chronic medical condition such as asthma, diabetes, or a disease of the heart, lung, liver, or kidney
- If your symptoms become severe, or if they go away and then return
If you don’t have a doctor in the area, contact
- Finger Lakes Medical Care Center, Auburn 315-258-7100
- Urgent Medical Care, Skaneateles 315-685-9355
- Oswego Health Urgent Care Center, Fulton 315-592-3500
- Auburn 315-294-8503
- Fulton 315-593-9308
More Flu Info
Check these government websites for more information on the flu: