Flu Facts & Fundamentals

No one has time for the flu, and yet each year it is estimated that between 14 and 56 million Americans will get influenza, and that more than 200,000 will be hospitalized as a result of this potentially serious illness.

Unfortunately, it’s quite easy for flu symptoms to be confused with those of other ailments. But how can you tell the difference? Both a cold and the flu are viral infections that cause similar symptoms, such as coughing and sore throat. However, a cold is only a minor viral infection of the nose and throat, while the flu is typically more severe, with symptoms that include the sudden onset of high fever as well as muscle aches and pains.

Cold symptoms are usually more inconvenient than worrisome:

• a hacking cough
• sore throat
• sneezing
• a stuffy nose

However, flu symptoms are more severe, and often include:

• high fever lasting three to four days
• body aches
• chills and sweats
• fatigue and weakness
• combined with a sore throat, sneezing and a stuffy nose

Children are more likely than adults to get the flu, but rates of serious illness and death are highest among people 65 years or older. Other groups at higher risk for flu complications are children aged 2 years or younger, and individuals with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or lung disease.

Keep in mind that flu symptoms in children less than 5 years of age tend to differ from those in adults. It is therefore important to call your child’s pediatrician if he or she is having a ‘cold’ that also includes:

• fever
• vomiting
• diarrhea

Older family members are at higher risk for contracting the flu than the general population. Concerning flu symptoms for individuals aged 50 and older are:

• fever higher than 99°F
• fatigue and weakness
• confusion

A bout of flu can be mild in some people, and more severe in others; but most healthy people recover completely within two to three weeks. However, elderly people, young children, and those with serious medical conditions are at greater risk for flu-related complications. These include bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of underlying medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, lung disease, or diabetes.