Macomb County Web Site
macomb county public health
| Vaccines, Medications and Treatment of Flu Symptoms |
| Vaccines |
A vaccine helps the body become immune to a particular disease. Currently, there is a seasonal flu vaccine (flu shot) to  reduce the number of individuals who get the seasonal flu. The seasonal flu vaccine will NOT work against a new virus. For example, Avian H5N1 that has the potential to cause a flu pandemic. A flu pandemic would be caused by a virus that is not yet in circulation among humans. A vaccine against the pandemic flu will be developed as soon as possible if a pandemic occurs. However, this vaccine may take months to prepare. Experts are already researching ways to speed the development of vaccines. |
| Antiviral Medications |
 These medications help treat the flu. They help reduce flu symptoms in infected people, may make infected people less contagious, and may decrease the risk of the flu in healthy people who are exposed to people with the disease. It is not known if current antiviral medications will work against pandemic flu. The government has taken steps to store some antiviral medication just in case. Do NOT stockpile your own antiviral medications. These medications are only available by prescription should not be taken unless prescribed by your physician as there could be significant side effects. Also, not all antiviral medications work against all viruses. |
| During a pandemic, flu vaccines and medications may be in short supply, particularly early in a pandemic. Authorities will decide who gets these vaccines and medications first. It is important to get these vaccines and medications to people who need them the most - people who provide essential care services (health-care providers or public safety workers) and/or people at high risk of complications. |
| Recognizing and Treating the Flu |
If you or another family member gets the flu (seasonal or pandemic), be responsible and stay home. It is estimated that for every person who gets the flu, he or she infects two or three others. Seasonal flu symptoms may include:
Pandemic flu symptoms may be more severe than those listed above. Public health officials will share common signs and symptoms with the public in the event of a flu pandemic. If you get the flu, check with your health-care provider about treatment. Over-the-counter medications and/or anti-viral may be recommended. However, most people who get the flu recover at home. Remember you are always advised to drink plenty of fluids and get lots of rest. If you are caring for someone with the flu, follow some basic guidelines to reduce spreading the virus to other family members. Keep the person in another room, if at all possible, and limit visitors. Wash or sanitize your hands frequently, especially after caring for the sick person or handling soiled laundry. Give medications, if prescribed and available. Never give a person under the age of 20 any medication containing aspirin or "salicylates." These medications in young people can cause Reye's syndrome, which can lead to brain damage or death. Talk to your health-care provider about appropriate medications to use with young people. |
Be prepared, not scared! |
