Mason County

Health Department

 

 

Influenza F&Q

  Q: What is the best way to stop the spread of influenza at home, school and work?

A: Remember the 3 Cs: Clean your hands, Cover your cough, and sneeze and Contain your germs by staying home when you are sick. For more information visit the CDCs Stopping the Spread of Germs site.

 

Q: What should I do if my child or I get sick? Should I come to the Health Department to be tested?

A: At the first signs of illness, stay home and call your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action. If your symptoms are mild, a visit to an Emergency Room where you may be exposed to more ill individuals is not advised. Likewise, do not come to the health department. The health department does not test for or diagnose influenza.

 

Q: How effective is Flu mist

A: According to one large study, flu mist decreases the chances of coming down with the flu by 92%. Go to the CDC website for more information on flu mist

 

Q: Is it true that Flu Mist has mercury in it?

A: Not at all, Flu Mist is mercury free. In fact, a tuna salad sandwich has more mercury than the shots which do contain some mercury (New York Times 10/9/09)

 

Q: Can I get the flu from flu mist

A: Unlike the flu shot, the nasal spray flu vaccine does contain live viruses. However, the viruses are attenuated (weakened) and cannot cause flu illness. The weakened viruses are cold-adapted, which means they are designed to only cause infection at the cooler temperatures found within the nose. The viruses cannot infect the lungs or other areas where warmer temperatures exist.

 

Q: What do I need to know about the Flu Nasal Spray Vaccine?

A: Nasal Spray Vaccine Information from CDC

 

Q: What do I need to know about the Flu Shot?

A: Flu Shot Vaccine Information from CDC