Symptoms of the Flu

The symptoms of the different types of flu are very similar, no matter the type. Swine flu (h1n1) symptoms, influenza symptoms, and symptoms and signs of the flu differ in intensity more than actual flu symptoms.

There are certain signs and symptoms of the flu you should be on the lookout for when you or a loved one is feeling ill or under the weather. While not every type of the flu will have the exact same symptoms, most are a similar enough to be able to provide a list of common symptoms.

Common signs and symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever over 100 F (38 C)- Fever can be very serious, and should be kept down if possible.
• Chills and sweats- Part of waning-waxing fever.
• Headache- This is different from the headache induced by congested sinuses. Usually part of a fever
• Dry cough- without mucus, usually hardest on the throat.
• Aching muscles, especially in your back, arms and legs
• Fatigue and weakness- This is usually best helped with rest and taking it easy, and not exerting yourself.
• Nasal congestion- This will often come with sinus headache pain

As business statistics tell us, every year thousands or hours and billions of dollars are lost to the flu. Even those still coming in to the workplace while ill will be at a lower productivity than normal, and might prove more of a hindrance than a help in a work situation.

How to Avoid the Flu

In the cold and flu season, the thing that spreads the virus so quickly is contact. All it takes is one infected person coming into to work while ill, or to school. With them coughing or even breathing out germs, they usually will end up spreading the virus to everyone one around them. This is why it's important to stay home, to stay out of the workplace or keep the kids home from school when you or they are feeling ill. If the virus can't spread, the flu will be stopped dead in its tracks.

If you want to avoid the flu completely, getting a flu shot is usually the best choice. An annual flu shot is an inexpensive way to save yourself what could easily be a week of misery, lost work and lost wages. It is not uncommon to have businesses offer the vaccine to their employees, or to pay for them to receive shots off site. While a mild case of the 24-hour flu sometimes results from the vaccine, this is rare.