The flu, a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.
The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu shot each year. But do not wait — it takes about 2 weeks for the flu shot to take effect.
If you get the flu: Stay home from work, school and out of public places. To keep the flu from spreading: wash your hands often, and always sneeze or cough into your elbow or a tissue.
At the first sign of the flu, call your physician.
The flu is treatable on an outpatient basis and does not typically require treatment in the emergency room. You’ll only be exposing yourself to other illnesses while spreading flu germs to other patients.
The flu vaccine is approved for everyone six months of age and older. Guard yourself from getting the flu.
Get vaccinated.
For more information, visit United Regaional.org.
About United Regional
United Regional Health Care System is located in Wichita Falls, Texas and provides comprehensive medical care including inpatient and outpatient services, advanced diagnostics, surgical specialties and life-saving emergency care to a 9-county service area. It has the area’s only Level II Trauma Center and serves as the Primary Stroke Center for the region.