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Influenza

  Just The Facts
What is Influenza?
• It is a respiratory (lung) infection that is caused by a virus .
• It is NOT a common cold.
 
Children with Influenza may return to school 5-7 days from the start of symptoms.
 
What are the signs and symptoms?
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• High fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Coughing
• Fatigue (over tired)
 
How is it spread?
Spreads through the air by coughing and sneezing or by direct contact with articles used by the infected person.
 
What can people do?
  • Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing and not to share food, drink or eating utensils with others. (teach your children this)
  • It is important to wash your hands with soap and water after coughing, sneezing, wiping a nose, eating or before preparing food.
  • Stay a home if you are not feeling well. Keep your child at home if they are not feeling well. This will help stop the spread of influenza to others.
  • If your child has a fever greater than 39°C or if symptoms continue to persist, contact your doctor.
 
There is also an influenza vaccine that can help prevent you from getting the virus.
 
 
Influenza is a reportable disease and must be reported to the Local Medical Officer of Health
under the Health Protection and Promotion Act.
 
If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Health Information Line
at the Brant County Health Unit 519-753-4937 extension 259
 
 
Adapted from Wellington Dufferin Guelph Health Unit Revised   |  08/2009
Last Updated ( Wednesday, 14 October 2009 )