WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU GET INFLUENZA?

When influenza strikes the lungs, the lining of the respiratory tract is damaged. The tissues become swollen and inflamed. Fortunately, the damage is rarely permanent. The tissues usually heal within a few weeks.

Influenza is often called a respiratory disease, but it affects the whole body. The victim usually becomes acutely ill with fever, chills, weakness, loss of appetite and aching of the head, back, arms and legs. The influenza sufferer may also have a sore throat and a dry cough, nausea, and burning eyes.

The fever mounts quickly; temperature may rise to 104 degrees F but after two or three days, it usually subsides. The patient is often left exhausted for days afterwards.

SARS, a potentially more serious illness may start like the flu.  Check with your doctor immediately if complications such as difficulty breathing occur in areas where SARS is present.

Be prepared for this year's flu season.
Check out one of these sites to find a flu shot location near you!