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Don’t Forget the Flu

Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions , are at higher risk of serious flu complications.  There are two main types of influenza (flu) viruses: Types A and B. The influenza A and B viruses that routinely spread in people (human influenza viruses) are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics  each year. CDC estimates that, between 2010 and 2020, flu has resulted in 9 million to 41 million illnesses, 140,000 to 710,000 hospitalizations and 12,000 to 52,000 deaths, annually.

Cook County Department of Public Health collects and analyzes data on local influenza (or flu) activity year-round. During periods when higher influenza activity is expected (generally October to May), this information is compiled into a weekly surveillance report that is distributed to our partners in the healthcare community, schools, community groups, and the public. View 2022-23 influenza surveillance reports here. View our ShinyApp for more detailed surveillance data here .

The best way to reduce the risk of flu and its potentially serious complications is by getting vaccinated  each year.

 

The Fact Is, Everyone Needs a Flu Shot

With rare exception, everyone six months and older should get a flu shot every year – even healthy people. The flu shot is especially important for people at increased risk of serious complications from flu.

These include:

  • People over age 65
  • People of any age with chronic conditions
  • Children under age 5
  • Pregnant women

Take 3 Actions to Prevent the Flu

GET VACCINATED

The flu shot is the best protection against flu and flu-related illnesses, hospitalizations and deaths. It is safe, effective and available at no cost at many doctors’ offices, pharmacies, community health centers and flu clinics. Don’t wait to vaccinate. Get your flu shot as soon as possible. It takes two weeks to be fully effective. Learn more about the 2020-21 seasonal flu vaccine.

STOP GERMS

In addition to getting a flu vaccine, take everyday actions to help stop the spread of germs. Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your arm. Stay home as much as possible. If you must go out, wear a mask, watch your distance and wash your hands frequently. Avoid close contact with people that are sick and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.

GET TREATMENT

If you get sick with flu symptoms, in most cases, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people except to get medical care.  If you become sick and are at increased risk for serious complications from flu, contact your doctor right away to discuss the benefits of antiviral medications that can be used to treat flu illness. Visit the CDC website for more information about antiviral medications.
CDC

Help Us Spread Facts, Not Flu

Go here to see the most common flu myths and get the facts.

Explore Our Media Gallery

The 2020 “Spread the Facts. Not the Flu.” campaign consisted of English and Spanish ads on social media, radio and billboards, and live DJ reads and commercials on the radio at V103FM and 105.1FM.. This campaign was designed to debunk common myths about flu and the flu vaccine and to stress the importance of getting a flu shot each year. These messages which are still relevant this 2022-23 flu season.

High-resolution design files are available for download and use by partners interested in branding as their own with a source credit to CCDPH. Please email CCDPH Communications for details.

Posters

Download this 11X17 poster for your workplace, business, college or university, apartment building, condo or home.

Billboards

Look for the “Spread Facts. Not Flu.” digital billboards in prominent and high-traffic locations on major roadways such as I-55, I-94 and I-294.

Social Media Ads

Look for the “Spread Facts. Not Flu.” social media ads (static and video) on Facebook, Instagram, Google Ads and YouTube in English and Spanish.

YouTube

Look for the “Spread Facts. Not Flu.” videos on YouTube in English and Spanish.

Updated September 20, 2023, 11:56 AM

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