Influenza Flu
American Samoa Department of Health Immunization Division (ASDoHID)​

Immunizing and safeguarding our children and families

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At a glance: ​  There are several immunization programs offered and provided by the American Samoa Department of Health Immunization Division (ASDoHID).  Influenza Flu is one of the programs.

Influenza Flu

The flu, or influenza, is a contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system

• Symptoms
  The flu can cause a range of symptoms, including: 
  • Fever or feeling feverish 
  • Chills or sweats 
  • Cough 
  • Sore throat 
  • Runny or stuffy nose 
  • Muscle or body aches 
  • Headaches 
  • Fatigue 
  • Vomiting and diarrhea, more common in children 
  • Loss or change in sense of smell or taste 
  • Shortness of breath 
• Treatment
  Treatment for the flu usually involves: 
  • Rest 
  • Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, juice, and warm soups 
  • Taking acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) for fever, headache, or achiness 
  • Taking cough medicine 
  • Taking antiviral medicine 
• Prevention
  An annual flu vaccine can help prevent the flu and limit complications. 
• Risk factors
  Some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications, including: 
  • People 65 years and older 
  • People with certain chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease 
  • People with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m2 or higher 
  • Pregnant people 
  • Children younger than five years ​