Administrative Brief
COMMISSION INFORMATION MEMORANDUM
VOL. 30 NO. 35 October 30, 2008
ADMINISTRATIVE BRIEF FROM YVONNE GIBBONS
Influenza (commonly called the “flu”)
is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.
We often call gastrointestinal illnesses “flu” and that is most often gastritis (nausea, vomiting and
diarrhea).
Common flu symptoms
are fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and
body aches. These are the most common and usually start suddenly.
It is difficult to distinguish the flu from other infections on the basis of symptoms alone. A doctor’s exam
may be needed to tell whether you have developed the flu or a complication of the flu. There are tests
that can determine if you have the flu as long as you are tested within the first two or three days of illness.
If you develop flu-like symptoms and are concerned about your illness, especially if you are at high risk
for complications of the flu, you should consult your healthcare provider. Those at high risk for
complications include people 65 years or older, people with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma,
diabetes or heart disease), pregnant women and young children.
In some people the flu can cause serious complications, including bacterial pneumonia, dehydration and
worsening of chronic medical conditions such as congestive heart failure, asthma or diabetes. Children
and adults may develop sinus problems and ear infections.
The flu usually spreads
from person to person in respiratory droplets when people who are infected
cough or sneeze. People occasionally may become infected by touching something with influenza virus
1 day
on it and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes. Healthy adults may be able to infect others
before and up to 5 days after
getting symptoms getting sick.
The best way to protect yourself
and others is to get a flu vaccination each year. The flu shot is an
inactivated vaccine (containing killed virus) that is given with a needle, usually in the arm. The flu shot is
approved for use in people older than 6 months.
Also available in some clinics is the nasal-spray flu vaccine. It is a vaccine made with live, weakened flu
viruses that do not cause the flu. It is approved for use in healthy people 2-49 years of age who are not
pregnant.
The Health Department will continue giving flu shots during their regular nursing clinic hours until their
supply is gone. These hours are Monday – Tuesday, 8:30 to 4:00 p.m.; Wednesday 8:30 – 6:00 p.m.;
and Friday 8:30 to 1:30 p.m.
MONDAY'S MEETING
Enclosed are other items on the agenda. If any Commissioner has questions or cannot attend
the meeting, please contact me.
Jason A. Gage
City Manager