Flu Facts
Influenza (commonly called the "flu") is a serious, acute respiratory illness that is caused by a virus. According to the National Advisory Committee on Immunizations up to 20,000 people may be hospitalized due to the flu and 4,000 to 8,000 Canadians may die from flu-related illness and other serious complications of the flu.
The flu shot can protect you from the flu. And when you protect yourself, you also protect the people around you.
Is it a cold or the flu?*
|
SYMPTOM |
COLD |
FLU |
|
Fever |
Rare |
Usual; high fever (102° F/39° C to 104° F/40° C), sudden onset, lasts three to four days |
|
Headache |
Rare |
Usual, can be severe |
|
Muscle aches and pains |
Sometimes, generally mild |
Usual, often severe |
|
Tiredness and weakness |
Sometimes, generally mild |
Usual, severe, may last up to two to three weeks |
|
Extreme tiredness |
Unusual |
Usual, early onset, can be severe |
|
Runny, stuffy nose |
Common |
Common |
|
Sneezing |
Common |
Sometimes |
|
Sore throat |
Common |
Common |
|
Chest discomfort, coughing |
Sometimes, mild to moderate |
Usual, can be severe |
|
Complications |
Can lead to sinus congestion or earache |
Can lead to pneumonia and respiratory failure, and become life-threatening. Can worsen a current chronic condition. |
|
Prevention |
Frequent hand washing |
Annual immunization and frequent hand washing |
|
NOTE: Children may also experience the croup, ear infections, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea when they have the flu. These symptoms are not common in adults.
More information from the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care:
Last update: October 2011
Note – This information is based on the best evidence available. As more information becomes available, this information will be updated. |
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