The flu can be very dangerous to people at high risk – including people over 65, people with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women and young children. As we work with seniors every day, this is especially important to our community.
Learn more about the story of influenza from this infographic by Immunize Canada:
What is it ?
The flu is a respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The flu is highly contagious and is normally spread by the coughs and sneezes of an infected person, but can also be spread by touching something that has the flu virus on it.
Signs and Symptoms
- Sometimes fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (very tired)
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in young children than in adults.
Prevention
- Flu vaccine! According to the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI), Health Canada and CDC, whether working in direct resident care or not, all staff should get the flu shot.
- Frequent, proper hand washing
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Limit contact
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- Clean and disinfect surfaces