Each fall, a new influenza season begins. As you may know, influenza is a viral illness that affects people of all ages. 
This year we do not appear to be facing the same level of concern about a pandemic (worldwide) influenza outbreak. Last year, the H1N1 influenza virus (also called swine flu) was novel or new, and since it had not been seen before, our bodies appeared to have no immunity to its effects. As a result, we experienced the first global outbreak or pandemic in 40 years. Around the world, international and national health agencies rushed to develop a vaccine to prevent widespread sickness and potential death.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expect that the H1N1 virus will continue to spread along with seasonal viruses and will cause illness this year. As a result, this year’s vaccine was designed to protect against three different strains of influenza, including the H1N1 virus.
While health authorities do not expect a pandemic, the flu can certainly make you feel miserable for 2-5 days when you get it, and for some individuals it can be a serious illness. This is especially true for the very young, the elderly, and individuals with chronic conditions. All of these people tend to have immune systems are not as robust as the average, healthy adult and are at risk for the complications of flu.
There are some common sense things you can do to keep from getting sick, and things you can do to minimize the illness you experience if you do get the flu. On this website, you will find important information about seasonal flu nd what you can do to prevent getting sick.
How is flu different from a cold?
Both the flu and the common cold are caused by respiratory viruses, although the strains are different. In general, the common cold is a less severe illness and is less likely to develop into a complication such as pneumonia, bacterial infection or result in hospitalization. The flu is usually accompanied by fever, aches and fatigue; a dry cough is frequently intense. People who have the common cold more often suffer from a runny or stuffy nose.
Recognizing Symptoms of Flu
The symptoms of influenza viruses include: fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea.
Not all patients with the flu will have a fever. However, if you have prolonged fever, if these symptoms are severe, or if you have difficulty breathing, experience sudden dizziness, confusion or severe or persistent vomiting, you should seek medical attention.
Flu Complications
Certain groups of people are at increased risk of developing complications of flu. High-risk groups for seasonal flu include the very young, individuals who are pregnant, and those people with chronic diseases including cancer, chronic lung disease such as asthma, COPD, heart disease and diabetes. Severe cases of flu can lead to certain complications--most commonly, pneumonia, bronchitis and/or sinus or ear infections.
People with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes mellitus, COPD, asthma, or other immunocompromised conditions can experience severe symptoms and quickly develop complications of the flu. The flu can make these chronic health problems worse.
Maine CDC Director, Dr. Dora Mills reminds people of the need for people to stay informed, be prepared, and most importantly practice proper respiratory hygiene, including the following steps:
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- If you get sick, stay home from work or school, and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.
EMMC urges people who may be exhibiting symptoms of the flu - including fever, coughing, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea - to contact their primary care provider and to refrain from visiting family members and friends who may be staying at the hospital. There is no need to visit the emergency department if you are only experiencing mild symptoms.