For Individuals & Families

It is important to know about the different flu viruses currently in circulation, their risks, and what you can do to protect yourself and the people you care for. There are everyday steps you and your loved ones can take to help protect yourselves against infection from flu viruses, and there are steps you should take if you become infected.

About the Flu

Flu refers to illnesses caused by a number of different influenza viruses. Flu can cause a range of symptoms and effects, from mild to lethal. Two strains of flu, seasonal flu and the H1N1 (Swine) flu, are currently circulating in the United States. Most healthy people recover from the flu without problems, but certain people are at high risk for serious complications. A third, highly lethal H5N1 (Bird) flu is being closely tracked overseas. Learn more.

Vaccination

Getting vaccinated is the best way to avoid getting either the seasonal or the H1N1 flu. The two flus require separate vaccinations (two shots). Plan to get a seasonal flu vaccination now and the H1N1 vaccination when it becomes available. Learn more.

Prevention & Treatment

Washing your hands often and practicing good hygiene are two important steps to prevention. Antiviral medications may be used for prevention and treatment. Learn more.

Parents (and Expecting)

Vaccinating children is a priority. Children should be given both the seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccines. Pregnant women are a priority group for receiving the H1N1 vaccine when it becomes available because they are at increased risk. Find information here about protecting and caring for your unborn, newborn and infant children and for yourself. Learn more.

People with Health Conditions

People with certain health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, cancer, HIV/AIDS, and heart or kidney disease may face special medical challenges during flu season. Learn more.

Checklists

You can prepare for an influenza pandemic now. Checklists are provided to help individuals and families create family emergency health plans. Learn more.

Caregivers

There are steps you can take to avoid catching or spreading the flu while taking care of a sick person in your home. Learn more.

Travelers

There are currently no flu-based travel restrictions, but it is wise to know conditions wehere you are traveling, how to protect against getting the flu and what to do if you become sick during or after travel. People living abroad need special information also. Learn more.