Spread the Word not the Germ!
Influenza is a common and contagious viral disease of the respiratory system that can be spread by coughing, sneezing or touching surfaces like door handles and then touching mouth, nose or eyes. The most common symptoms include fever, chills, runny nose, sore throat, muscle pains, headache, coughing, and general weakness and discomfort. Flu can occasionally lead to pneumonia or other secondary bacterial pneumonia, especially for people who are high-risk.
Some high-risk groups include:
- people with chronic health conditions;
- people 65 and older;
- residents of long-term care facilities;
- people with severe obesity; and
- children under five and pregnant women.
The spread of influenza can be limited through simple infection prevention methods, such as:
- Wash your hands often and thoroughly in warm, soapy water or use alcohol-based hand rub. Good hand hygiene is the best way to fight all flu viruses.
- Cough and sneeze into your sleeve or a tissue, not your hand.
- Dispose of used tissues immediately, and then wash your hands.
- Avoid touching eyes, mouth and nose.
- Keep commonly touched surfaces and items clean and disinfected.
- Stay home if you’re sick. Contact a health care provider if your symptoms worsen.
FluPreventionTips
Flu shots also play an important role in preventing the spread of influenza. In Saskatchewan, the publicly-funded seasonal influenza vaccine will become available across the province beginning October 31, 2016. All individuals six months of age and older will be eligible to receive the vaccine which will be available through public health clinics, physicians, and nurse practitioners across the province.
Residents can contact their public health office, family physician, nurse practitioner, Regina Qu'Appelle Health, or call HealthLine at 811 to find the nearest flu clinic. Information on flu clinics is also available on the Ministry of Health’s website and Access HealthLine. Also please visit the Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region website.
Additional Flu & Pandemic Resources
