What is Influenza?

Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Illness from influenza can be mild to severe and in some cases lead to death.

Flu Season 2009

Different types of flu can be confusing! Stay informed to stay healthy. Currently, there are two types of flu strains circulating this year. There will be a separate vaccination for each type.

Seasonal Flu
Seasonal Flu is caused by a flu virus and is most common between November and March or April. Flu is a disease of the respiratory system (lungs) and is much more serious than the common cold. Complications of the flu may lead to bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes.

Novel H1N1 (Swine) Flu - Pandemic
A Pandemic Flu could cause a global outbreak, or pandemic, given the flu virus can spread from person to person.

Currently, Novel H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) cases have been reported in 168 countries, all 50 states in the U.S. and the District of Columbia.

How is the Flu Spread?

Flu is passed easily between people through respiratory droplets from sneezing and coughing. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 5 days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. Almost half of healthy adults with the flu virus do not know that they have the flu and may continue with their daily activities. Check out The Centers for Diseases Control web site for key facts about the flu: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/keyfacts.htm

Control Activities in Alameda County

The Immunization Assistance Project of Alameda Public Health conducts a community education campaign, especially to high risk populations each year and sponsors many free flu clinics throughout Alameda County. In addition, we provide referrals to local resources both on our website and over the phone for residents of Alameda County.