Influenza (or the flu) is a common respiratory illness that affects millions of Canadians each year. The flu can cause a range of problems from a few sick days, to hospitalization and even death. The seasonal flu vaccine is the most effective method of preventing influenza that Canadians have access to every year, in time for the flu season.
Certain groups should not be vaccinated. These include children under six months of age and people who have had an allergic reaction to eggs or to a previous dose of the flu vaccine.
Regular hand washing is another way to help minimize your risk. By washing your hands often, you will reduce your chance of becoming infected after touching contaminated surfaces.
If you get the flu, you should increase the amount of fluids you drink (water, juice, soups) and get plenty of rest for seven to ten days. You may also wish to speak to your health care provider about medications to treat the flu. If you take them within 48 hours of the start of your symptoms, they may reduce the length of your illness by an average of one or two days. For more information on the flu, see the It's Your Health article on the Health Canada Web site.
Source: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ahc-asc/media/advisories-avis/_2007/2007_166-eng.php
