Unlike other respiratory illnesses, flu symptoms can linger for days. Complications of flu are pneumonia and even death in the most susceptible and frail individuals. Anyone can get flu, but several groups are most susceptible. Elderly persons aged 65 and above Residents of nursing homes and other chronic care facilities Adults and children with chronic illness such as asthma, diabetes, renal disease, immune suppression Children and teens receiving long-term aspirin therapy Women in the second or third trimester of pregnancy during the flu season.
Flu is spread from person to person through droplets that are coughed or sneezed into the air.
The virus can survive for a short period on inanimate objects like telephones, computer keyboards, doorknobs, pens, pencils, hankerchiefs and tissues. If you exhibit any of the typical flu symptoms - stay home from work or school until the symptoms have improved and you have been evaluated by your physician. Some people do complain of respiratory infection after the flu shot, but this is co-incidental illness not related to the vaccine. The most common side effect is soreness at the injection site which may last for a day or two. Less frequently reported side effects are headache or low grade fever.