Tis the season for flu shots, now through early December. Influenza, a common winter disease, is responsible for millions of lost work days each year. In individuals with weakened immune systems, influenza can cause serious disability and even death. Recent studies have shown the cost-effectiveness of giving flu vaccine to healthy, working individuals.
Influenza is a respiratory tract infection caused by a virus.
Patients with influenza get fever, muscle aches, sore throat, cough, and headache. They usually feel very tired and worn out, and that fatigue may extend for weeks. Healthy people who don't want to get flu People over 60 years of age People with chronic illnesses, especially of the respiratory tract, such as asthma, emphysema, and related problems. Health care workers who take care of individuals at risk for influenza. Flu vaccine is not recommended for people who are allergic to eggs or certain preservatives, or who have a history of reacting badly to flu vaccine.