Public Health and Environment
Seasonal Flu
Influenza (flu) is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus that is spread through coughing and sneezing. A person usually becomes sick one to five days following exposure but can spread the disease to others during a period from one day before, until seven days after they become sick. Symptoms of flu include a rapid onset of fever, body aches, runny nose, headaches, chills, sore throat, and dry cough.
Seasonal flu usually begins to show up in October and lasts through April. Every year a new vaccine is created to offer protection against seasonal flu. About 36,000 people die from seasonal flu in the United States every year. Infection with the flu can lead to complications such as bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, and dehydration. There is an increased risk of complications and death in the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with an already weakened immune system.
For additional information and to find a Seasonal Flu Shot Clinic, please see
Minnesota Department of Health - Seasonal Flu.
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