Influenza

Influenza, better known as the flu, is not associated with stomach illness or the common cold, although they do share many symptoms. This chart can help you distinguish between the two.

Symptom	Influenza	Common Cold
Onset	Sudden	Gradual
Fever	Over 101F, lasting 3-4 days	Rare
Headache	Prominent	Rare
Muscle Aches / Pains	Usual, often severe	Slight
Tiredness / Weakness	Can last up to 3 weeks	Very mild
Extreme Exhaustion	Early and prominent	Never
Chest Discomfort	Common	Mild / Moderate
Stuffy Nose	Sometimes	Common
Sneezing	Sometimes	Usual
Sore Throat	Sometimes	Common

If you have the flu, you need to stay home from work or school to prevent spreading the virus and take proper care of yourself while you are ill. Because influenza is a virus, antibiotics are not effective against flu symptoms.

Prescription antiviral medications may increase your chances of recovering from the flu more quickly if you begin treatment within 48 hours of experiencing symptoms. However, there are no guarantees that antiviral treatments will work.
Do your part to prevent the spread of influenza in our community by following these guidelines:

Prevent the Spread of Germs

• Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently.
• Dry them with a clean towel.
• Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough.
• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces.
• Do not share anything that goes in the mouth.
• Limit your exposure to large crowds.

If You Feel Sick

• Don’t risk passing the virus on to others. Stay home and rest.
• Call your doctor if you believe you need medical attention.

To Fight Off Disease

• Get a flu shot.
• Eat plenty of whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
• Do not allow yourself to become exposed to cigarette smoke.
• Call (307) 684-2564 for your flu shot appointment today.

Check our calendar for flu shot availability. Click here to learn more about influenza. Learn more about the flu shot (inactive virus) and the nasal spray (live virus). Spanish versions of the flu shot and nasal spray documents are also available.