This is your guide to Seasonal Influenza ("the flu"). Below you will find tools to prevent the flu through healthy hygiene techniques; protect yourself and your family by getting vaccinated; and the best way to prepare for flu season.

Seasonal Flu:

• Is a contagious, respiratory illness caused by a virus.
• Can cause mild or severe illness, including pneumonia or even death.
• Is more dangerous than the common cold for children. Each year, millions of children get sick with seasonal flu, thousands of children are hospitalized, and some children die from flu. Children commonly need medical care because of flu, especially children younger than 5 years old.
• Is preventable with a vaccine! Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older, every year. For more information, please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/season/2025-2026.html

Seasonal Flu Symptoms: You cannot tell the difference between flu and other respiratory illnesses by the symptoms alone. Testing is needed to confirm a diagnosis. In general, flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms are typically more intense and begin more abruptly.

If you think you have the flu, you should talk to a doctor, especially if you are at higher risk for complications. Prompt antiviral treatment is recommended for the following groups at higher risk: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/index.htm

Stop the Spread of Influenza:
When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches surfaces used by others influenza virus can be spread. Take a few simple, yet effective steps to prevent sickness:

• Wash your hands often.
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer gel or wipes.
• Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or cover your mouth and nose with a tissue and wash your hands immediately.
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth to prevent the spread of germs.
• Stay home when you are sick or have flu symptoms.
• Clean commonly touched surfaces when someone is ill.

The most effective way to protect against flu is to get vaccinated each year.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH)

American Lung Association: About the Flu

World Health Organization: Seasonal Flu