Influenza (Flu)

• Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Influenza is most common during the fall and winter. The exact timing and duration of flu seasons can vary, but activity often begins to increase in October. Most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, although activity can last as late as May.

• Symptoms and Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) Definition: Influenza usually comes on suddenly, one to four days after the virus enters the body, and may include these symptoms:

  • Fever or feeling feverish/chills

  • Cough

  • Sore throat

  • Runny or stuffy nose

  • Headache

  • Muscle or body aches

  • Tiredness (can be extreme)

  • Among children, otitis media (ear infection), nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common. Some infected persons are asymptomatic.

Influenza-like illness, or ILI, is defined as fever ≥100°F AND cough and/or sore throat (in the absence of a known cause other than influenza).

• Prevention:

  1. Hand washing and using alcohol-based hand sanitizer

  2. Covering your coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue or your arm or sleeve

  3. Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth

  4. Avoiding close contact with persons who are ill

  5. Staying home when you are ill

  6. Taking antiviral medications if prescribed by your doctor

  7. Call and inform the school nurse of confirmed flu diagnosis

Resources:
Cold Versus Flu – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Texas Department of State Health Services – Influenza