About Influenza (Flu)
Influenza (Flu) is a serious disease caused by influenza A or B viruses, mainly during the Fall and Winter. It can cause mild to severe illness and at times can lead to death.
Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Weakness
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
How does Flu spread?
- Flu virus spreads through the tiny droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
- A person can get infected by breathing in these droplets, or by touching surfaces covered with these drops, and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.
- People who have flu may spread it to others up to 5-7 days after first feeling sick.
Anyone can get sick with flu, even healthy people, and serious problems related to flu can happen to anyone at any age. Some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick. This includes people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), immunocompromised persons, pregnant people, and children younger than five years, especially those younger than two years.
Protect Yourself and Your Family
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older. The vaccine is typically available starting in September.
For additional information on Flu vaccination:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Flu Website
- California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Flu Website
- Summary of the 2024-25 influenza recommendations by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.
Contact Us
For Flu Vaccine Information
Phone: (510) 267-3230
Fax: (510) 268-2333
Email: Immunize@acgov.org