Flu+Summary+-+Rachel

Summarize (in complete sentences) what you know about these flu topics. (A brief paragraph for each

The flu is considered a serious disease because more people die from the influenza virus than any other preventative vaccine disease. In the United States alone 5-20% of people contract the flu and more than 200,000 people a year are hospitalized. Infants, the elderly, and those with chronic medical conditions infected with influenza are at a high risk of complications.
 * Why is the flu a serious disease?**

The flu spreads directly from person to person through respiratory droplets found in coughs or sneezes. Usually an infection is caused by droplets entering the mouth or nasal area through the air. While less likely to occur a person can still contract the disease by touching droplets and then without washing their hands touch their mouth or nose.
 * How is the flu spread?**

The flu vaccine is the best method of preventing an infection, however there are some downsides. Vaccines are created about six months to a year in advance; based on predictions of what the most likely strains of the flu will be, there is a possibility that the vaccine is ineffective. A person cannot get the flu from the flu shot, but they may experience some side effects such as low grade fever and aches. Unlike the shot which is made up of inactive viruses the viruses in nasal spray vaccine are only weakened, meaning a person could theoretically contract the disease from the vaccine. Also the side effects for the spray are coughing, runny nose, headache, and sore throat. While there are downsides the vaccine allows the body to build an immunity to the flu and aids in efforts to stop the virus from spreading.
 * What are the benefits and risks of a flu vaccine?**

source: cdc.com