Influenza Information for Families and Individuals

Influenza (flu) is a very contagious illness caused by the influenza virus. The flu can cause mild to severe illness.

It’s up to you to stop the flu and the best way is to get a flu shot. Also, everyday preventive actions may offer some protection against the flu.

For your convenience, DSHS has gathered additional online resources for your family from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). CDC links open in a new window.

Flu Facts

• Prevent Seasonal Flu | CDC
• Flu: A Guide for Parents – español (cdc.gov, pdf)
• Flu Information for Parents (cdc.gov)
• Everyday Preventive Actions (cdc.gov, pdf)
• Cold Versus Flu (cdc.gov)
• How Flu Spreads (cdc.gov)
• What to Do If You Get Sick (cdc.gov)
• Flu & You Brochure -  español (cdc.gov, pdf)
• Information for Travelers (cdc.gov)
• Key Facts about Influenza (cdc.gov)

Vaccination

• Preventive Actions (cdc.gov)
• Who should Vaccinate? (cdc.gov)
• People at Higher Risk of Flu Complications (cdc.gov)
• Vaccination for those 65 and Older (cdc.gov)
• Flu and People with Asthma (cdc.gov)
• Flu and People with Diabetes (cdc.gov)
• Pregnant Women and Influenza (cdc.gov)
• Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine (cdc.gov)

Medicines

• Antiviral Drugs - What You Should Know (cdc.gov)

In-Home Care

• Caring for Someone Sick at Home (cdc.gov)
• Advice for Caregivers of Young Children (cdc.gov)