Flu can cause fever, chills, headache, dry cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, muscle aches and extreme fatigue lasting several days to more than a week. Influenza is spread easily from person to person primarily when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Influenza vaccine is recommended annually for persons at high risk.
Since there may be a flu vaccine delay and possible shortage, health care providers are being asked to prioritize patients to ensure that those at highest risk are vaccinated first. Individuals with egg allergies or those who have had a previous vaccine-associated allergic reaction, and adults with acute febrile illnesses should consult their doctor before getting the flu shot. All people 65 years of age and older and other groups at higher risk for invasive pneumococcal disease should receive one-time vaccination for pneumococcal pneumonia. You can receive this vaccination on the same day that you get the flu shot. You can get a flu shot at your doctor's office or at one of the many vaccination clinics that will be held across New York State.