Seasonal influenza is caused by viruses that have infected people before.  Each year the seasonal influenza is studied to determine which influenza strains will be the most active in the upcoming year, and vaccine is developed to help boost immunity to these strains in the general population.  Seasonal influenza infects people "seasonally," between December and May.

• Why Get a Flu Vaccine?

It is important for families to have a plan to help them address public health emergencies, including disease outbreaks and natural disasters.  Planning can help your family deal with, and survive, a public health emergency.

The seasonal flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It can cause mild to severe illness and sometimes can lead to death. The flu virus is spread through person to person contact when a person infected with the flu coughs sneezes, or touches an object.  Each season there are different influenza viruses that cause illness. The best way to prevent the seasonal flu is by getting a flu shot each year.

The symptoms of flu include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Cough
• Sore Throat
• Runny or Stuffy Nose
• Muscle Aches    
• Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults

Certain groups of people are more likely to develop severe illness from the flu, including children younger than five years, adults over 65 years, pregnant women, and children and adults with medical conditions.

It is important that these groups of people, as well as any children or adults who may be in close contact with them, receive the flu shot each year.

In addition to getting a flu shot, everyone should take these important steps to prevent the flu:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
• Stay home from work or school if you are sick

Please visit the following websites for more information about seasonal flu:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Wisconsin Department of Health Services