What Parents Need to Know About Influenza
Influenza (also known as the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Influenza is different from a cold, and often comes on suddenly. Here are some links to information about the flu and young children:
- CDC Influenza Information Info:
About the Flu - CDC Update Your Flu Shot
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/vaccinations.htm - Oregon Health Authority Flu Prevention Info:
https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/preventionwellness/fluprevention/Pages/index.aspx
Influenza Symptoms
Flu symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches
- Headache
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea (more common in children than adults)
Protect Your Family Against Influenza
The best way to protect against Influenza is to get a yearly flu vaccine for yourself and your child. Flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older every year. Flu shots and nasal spray flu vaccines are both options for vaccination.
In addition to vaccination, you and your child should take everyday actions to help prevent the spread of the flu including:
- Stay away from people who are sick as much as possible to keep from getting sick yourself
- If you or your child are sick, avoid others as much as possible when you or your child are sick to keep from infecting them
- Cover your coughs and sneezes
- Wash your hands often
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Clean surfaces or objects that may be contaminated with flu viruses
Call: 503-554-0036
Phones are answered and office is open 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Monday-Friday.
After Hours: For urgent medical needs after-hours, please call the office at 503-554-0036 and follow the prompts to be connected to our Physicians Answering Service. Voicemail messages left after-hours at that number will be returned early the next business day.