How well do you know flu?

COVID-19 has grabbed the headlines for the past three-and-a-half years, leaving influenza in the shadows. But don’t let the flu’s lack of press fool you. This virus can also be deadly, particularly for vulnerable populations.

As we prepare for the 2023 flu season, here are 10 things to know:

1. The Spanish flu epidemic of 1918 killed more people than World War I and World War II combined.
2. Flu-related hospitalizations range between 140,000 and 710,000, while flu-related deaths range from 12,000 to 56,000 per year.
3. Influenza is contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. Antibiotics are not appropriate for treatment and can lead to antibiotic resistance.
4. Flu viruses can survive up to 24 hours outside of the body, which can lead to indirect transmission.
5. People can spread the virus for up to 48 hours before they show signs and symptoms of having the flu.
6. Flu can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, sinus infections, ear infections and more.
7. Signs and symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headaches and fatigue. If you have the flu, stay home from work.
8. Even healthy people can get very sick and spread the flu to others.
9. The flu virus can change, so the best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated every year.
10. Asante employees can get their vaccine at Asante Employee Health or Asante Pharmacy.

KEY DATES

Oct. 30: Complete the flu education module in ALEC/HealthStream.

Nov. 30: Deadline for employees to get their flu shot.

Nov. 30: Deadline to submit an attestation (if you got the shot outside of Asante) or declination in MyChart.