You woke up feely achy, feverish and you seem more tired now than when you went to bed. 

 

Sounds like the flu. 

 

It’s that time of year and Carolyn McCusker, Immunization Coordinator with the Northern Health Region shares some of the other flu symptoms to watch for.

 

"Typical symptoms of the flu are high fever, severe headache, general aches and pains, fatigue and weakness lasting 2 to 3 weeks or more, a runny, stuffy nose, sore throat and chest discomfort and coughing.     The flu is different from a cold, mainly because the symptoms and complications are more severe.    It also may come on very suddenly."

 

One of the best ways to head off the flu is with an immunization.   If you’re not sure if you’ll bother with a flu shot, here are some things you should know about the flu virus first.

 

"The flu virus can survive for up to 48 hours on surfaces such as the telephone, computer keyboard, doorknob, countertops, coffeepot handles or toys.   Because you can't see, feel, smell or taste the flu virus, it is impossible for you to know when you have come into contact with it.  Flu symptoms can take one to seven days before they appear.  During this time, you are contagious to all of those around you and put your family, friends, co-workers and loved ones at risk of getting the flu."

 

The  flu vaccine protects against 3 influenza strains and lasts for up to 6 months after you receive it.    The first clinic in Thompson on Monday,  October 20th.  For the list of local clinics go to www dot NRHA dot ca.