Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory disease. Causing mild to severe illness (and sometimes even death), influenza is not “the stomach flu.”

In the U.S., more than 200,000 people every year are hospitalized with flu-related complications, and thousands die. While 90 percent of those who die from influenza are over 65, the flu still poses a serious health threat to kids. From September 2010 through August 2011, there were 115 deaths in children under age 18 due to confirmed influenza. Almost half of those kids were under the age of 5 and had no underlying illnesses or risk factors.

The flu season typically hits our area from November to March (peaking in January and February). The virus is spread mainly through tiny droplets (which become airborne when someone with the flu coughs, sneezes or talks). It’s possible to spread the flu before you know you’re sick. In fact, influenza is contagious one day before symptoms appear until five to seven days after becoming ill. Common symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever (unusually high) and chills
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Extreme tiredness
• Nausea and vomiting (more likely in children)

Protection From Infection

Believe it or not, influenza has already been seen in Michigan—so put a flu shot on your to-do list today. The best way to protect yourself and your entire family from infection is to get the proper vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone over the age of 6-months-old receives an annual flu vaccination. Getting vaccinated now will allow time for full immunity to develop before the flu season peaks. (Note: There is a small group of people who should not be vaccinated. Talk to your doctor before scheduling a flu shot to make sure you’re not in that group.)

This season’s vaccine protects against three flu strains: two influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2) and a strain of influenza B. There are three types of vaccines available:

• The traditional shot—approved for people 6 months and older. Containing killed viruses, the traditional shot sometimes causes soreness, redness or swelling (where the shot was given) and flu-like symptoms. Remember, these side effects are temporary and mild compared to suffering from a real bout with the flu. When given during pregnancy, the traditional vaccine protects the baby until 6 months of age, when the child can receive the shot.
• The nasal spray—approved for ages 2 to 49-years-old. While the nasal spray contains weakened viruses, it does not cause the flu. Mild and temporary side effects may include runny nose or nasal congestion, cough, fever, headache, muscle aches, abdominal pain and vomiting or diarrhea.
• The intradermal shot—approved for people 18 years and older. The intradermal flu vaccine is a shot that is injected into the skin instead of the muscle. A stronger dose is available for people over 65.

Along with vaccination, following these tips can also help you and those you love stay healthy throughout the flu season:

1. Sing “happy birthday” a lot. Washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (about the time it takes to sing “happy birthday”) reduces the spread of germs. 
2. Practice sneezing and coughing etiquette. To avoid spreading germs, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or shirtsleeve when sneezing or coughing.
3. Keep it clean. Keep kitchen counters, bedside tables, bathroom surfaces and toys clean with a household disinfectant.
4. Schedule a sick day. If it’s at all possible, stay home from work (or school) if you have the flu.
5. You are what you eat. Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C and E. Foods that can boost the immune system include milk, eggs, citrus fruits, vegetables and nuts.
6. Get your z’s. Without proper sleep, you increase your odds of getting sick. Adults need at least seven hours of sleep per night (children need more).
7. Just relax. Find ways to reduce stress, including exercising, listening to music, practicing yoga, meditating or reading.
8. Kick the smoking habit. Smoking kills the fibers in your nose and lungs that help prevent mucus from clogging these airways. Breathing secondhand smoke is also unhealthy for those around you, particularly children.

About Medication

For the very ill or those at higher risk for complications, medications are available to relieve flu symptoms. Those who should seek treatment include:

• Children under 5 (especially under 2)
• People over 65
• Pregnant women and women who have recently given birth
• People with chronic conditions like asthma, or heart, lung or kidney disease
• People with weakened immune systems (such as those with cancer, diabetes, chronic infections and individuals on continued steroid therapy)
• People under 19-years-old who are on long-term aspirin therapy 

Medications, which work best if started within 48 hours of the start of symptoms, may shorten the time you are sick and can prevent complications. Side effects may include nausea and vomiting, and in children, confusion and abnormal behavior.

Lisa Kanwischer, P.A., is a certified physician assistant at ProMed Pediatrics.  For an appointment or more information, call ProMed Pediatrics in Richland at (269) 552.2500 or the Woodbridge location in Portage at (269)329-0944.