Flu Time

Bird Flu - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Flu?
The flu, or influenza, is a respiratory infection caused by type A and type B influenza viruses that occurs mostly in fall and winter. The highly contagious virus usually enters the body through mucous membranes in the mouth, nose or eyes. When a person with the flu coughs or sneezes, the virus becomes airborne and can be inhaled by anyone nearby. In most communities, school-age children are the first to get the flu, and then they carry it home and to other group activities. In a mild flu season, about 10% to 15% of the population becomes infected. In a more severe flu season, 20% or more of the population can suffer from the flu.

What is the main difference between a cold and the flu?
Both the flu and a cold are viral infections that cause symptoms such as coughing and sore throat. A cold is a minor viral infection of the nose and throat. The flu is usually more severe, with the sudden onset of high fever and the addition of aches and pains.

Should I go see my doctor if I think I might have the flu?
If you feel seriously ill, you should always visit your doctor. Only your doctor will be able to tell you if you have a condition that requires treatment or if bed rest and fluids are all you need to get better. If you think you have the flu, visit your doctor as soon as symptoms start (within 2 days) and ask for more information about TAMIFLU.

People over the age of 50 and those of all ages with chronic health problems should always contact a doctor if they get the flu; however, the efficacy of TAMIFLU in high-risk patients has not been established.

Also important to know: people with the flu sometimes develop other serious infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis or ear infection. You should consult your doctor promptly if:

• You are coughing up thick, discolored or bloody mucus

• You have symptoms such as recurring fever, chest pain, facial swelling, severe pain in the face, forehead or ear

Visit your doctor to see if TAMIFLU is right for you. Your doctor can write you a prescription for a pill called TAMIFLU that is indicated for the treatment of influenza in patients 1 year and older who have had symptoms for no more than 2 days. TAMIFLU treats flu at its source, by attacking the virus that causes the flu, rather than simply masking symptoms. Rest is also important to help you get better. Plus, if you stay home, there's less risk that you'll give the flu to other people, as the flu continues to be contagious for 3 or 4 days after symptoms appear. You should also drink plenty of fluids, especially hot liquids, which may relieve the feeling of congestion. A pain reliever, such as acetaminophen, can be taken for aches and fever. Never give aspirin to a child under 12 years old who has the flu (or any illness you suspect is caused by a virus) due to the risk of a serious adverse effect known as Reye's syndrome.