flu information 2012-2013
Flu Information
Northampton Area Pediatrics is now offering seasonal flu vaccine to all patients. If you have a physical or recheck scheduled, you will be offered the vaccine. We are also scheduling appointments for our seasonal flu clinics. Please call to schedule your seasonal flu vaccine appointment today at 413-584-8700!!
Local and School Vaccination Programs - If your child receives a seasonal flu vaccination at school or at a local flu clinic, please tell us about it so that we can update your child's medical record.
Myths and Facts about Influenza - http://www.facesofinfluenza.org/en/influenza-facts/
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How do I know if my child has a cold or the flu? |
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Symptom |
Cold |
Flu |
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Coughing |
A hacking, productive cough (mucus- producing) |
A non-productive cough |
|
Stuffy Nose |
Stuffy nose that typically resolves spontaneously within a week. |
Not commonly present |
|
Sneezing |
Sneezing is common |
Not commonly present |
|
Sore Throat |
Sore throat is common |
Not commonly present |
|
Fever |
Not commonly present |
Fever is usually present(temperature of 100°F or higher |
|
Aches |
Slight body aches and pains can be part of a cold. |
Severe aches and pains are common with the flu. |
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Chills |
Not commonly present |
60% of people who have the flu experience chills. |
|
Tiredness |
Tiredness is fairly mild. |
Tiredness is moderate to severe with the flu. |
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Sudden Symptoms |
Cold symptoms tend to develop over a few days. |
The flu has a rapid onset within 3-6 hours. The flu hits hard and includes sudden symptoms like high fever, aches and pains. |
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Headache |
Not commonly present |
A headache is very common(present in 80% of flu cases) |
|
Chest Discomfort |
Chest discomfort is mild to moderate with a cold. |
Chest discomfort is often severe with the flu. |
