Flu Season Has Arrived in Colorado

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported early flu (influenza) activity in the United States in December 2012. Vaccination is the single most essential step people can take to protect themselves and others against infection.

Denver Public Health urges everyone to get a flu vaccine now if they have not already done so this season. It is not too late to get vaccinated to protect yourself against the flu.

Test Your Flu Knowledge

Think you know everything about the flu? Check out the statements below and see how your knowledge measures up to the facts from Denver Public Health’s flu experts. Then, read our flu fact sheet (also available in Spanish) for more information. 

1. You can get the flu from a flu shot.
   FACT- The flu shot does not contain live virus so it is impossible to get the flu from the vaccine. Mild soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, a headache, or a low-grade fever are possible side effects of the vaccination. Vaccination is safe and effective and is the best way to help prevent the flu.


2. The flu (influenza) is more of a nuisance, much like the common cold.
   FACT - The flu can be a severe respiratory illness that is contagious and can lead to severe complications, even death.


3. Antibiotics can fight the flu.
   FACT - Antibiotics can only fight bacterial infections. The flu is caused by a virus, not a bacteria, so antibiotics won't work against the flu. There are prescription medicines available to treat the flu, but it is only proven effective if started within 48 hours of symptoms.


4. If you get the flu, you can't get it again during that flu season.
   FACT - The flu infection can happen from more than one strain of virus. If you think you've already had the flu, you should still get the vaccine.


5. The flu is already in the community. It is probably too late to get vaccinated and be protected.
   FACT - It' never too late to get vaccinated. Everyone older than 6 months of age should be vaccinated and can be at any time during flu season.


6. You got a flu shot last year so you’re already protected.
   FACT - The flu is unpredictable and viruses change throughout the year. This is why the composition of the flu vaccine also changes each year. Getting vaccinated annually is the best protection. Even if the vaccine is not a perfect match, it may protect against related strains, which may mean milder illness or prevention of complications.


7. You've been throwing up all day. You must have the flu.
   FACT - The flu is more of a respiratory disease, not the stomach flu. Frequent vomiting and/or diarrhea may be signs of another illness.

How did you measure up?

Now that you know the facts, share them with family and friends to help stay healthy this flu season. And, if you haven't already, get the flu vaccine.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, WebMD, National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, Denver Public Health.