Sniffle, Cough, Cough

For three weeks I have been battling some nasty bugs. First a virus that attacked on the weekend with high fever and body aches. This past week a vicious sinus infection has sent me to urgent care for some antibiotics and steroids. BUT for all you doubtful of effective vaccination, I DO NOT have the flu!! The first hint of illness, I am bombarded by finger pointers, "Aha!" they tout, "you have the flu." Drives me crazy...





For your information, there have been no confirmed cases of flu infection in Oklahoma for the 2008-2009 flu season:

Most people who claim to have the flu, typically will have a cold or gastro intestinal infection.

Here's some facts about the flu and colds:

FLU is a Respiratory illness, that is it affects your breathing. FLU is NOT vomiting and / or diarrhea.

FLU often does NOT include a runny nose or congestion. Primary symptoms of FLU are fever, cough and body aches.

Colds rarely result in pneumonia, bacterial infections or hospitalizations like the FLU does.

For true flu diagnosis, a swab must be inserted into your nose and sent to a lab. Results can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few days. If you did not have a nose swab and were told by your doctor you have "flu-like" symptoms, you do NOT have confirmed flu.

It's not too late to get a flu shot or flu mist to protect you from the flu. The peak of flu season typically occurs in February, so get to your doctor or local health department for your flu vaccine today!