Influenza Information

What Is Influenza?

Influenza, better known as the flu, is an infection caused by a virus. This is a respiratory infection that can cause fever, coughing, sneezing, body aches, and headaches. This virus can spread from person to person when someone who has the flu coughs or sneezes and another person inhales tiny droplets that contain the virus.

The Flu Vaccine

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year. The flu vaccine is an injection given with a small needle. It is typically injected into the arm. The vaccine does not entirely prevent you from getting the flu, but in most cases will likely make the symptoms less severe.

Children and adults with IBD are recommended to receive a yearly flu vaccine before the flu season begins in October. It is important to ask your gastroenterologist (GI), primary care physician (PCP), or other healthcare providers if you or your child with IBD should be vaccinated against the flu. The inhaled nasal form of the vaccine is a live vaccine and is therefore not recommended for use in patients who are on immunosuppressive medications.

Five Steps to Fight the Flu

1. Get Vaccinated

It is important to get the flu vaccine every year to protect against the flu. Typically, flu season begins in October and can last until May, so be sure to schedule an appointment to get your vaccine before the season starts.

2. Cover Your Nose and Mouth

One of the easiest ways to prevent the spread of the virus is to cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. You can do this with a tissue or by coughing/sneezing into your inner elbow.

3. Hand Hygiene

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or the length of the “Happy Birthday” song. Tiny droplets with the flu virus could live on surfaces that we commonly touch. Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

4. Stay Home

If you are feeling unwell, stay home and get rest. Listen to your body and try to avoid others if you are diagnosed with the flu. If you are not sick, try to avoid close contact with people who are experiencing symptoms.

5. Take Your Prescribed Medications

If you do get the seasonal flu, your doctor may prescribe an antiviral drug. It is important to complete all of your prescribed medications, even if your symptoms go away.