Influenza is a respiratory illness that is spread from person to person and occurs in the winter months in the Northern Hemisphere.

At this time, influenza activity in the United States is low; however, there are signs of increasing activity of the virus.

Influenza activity typically begins in the fall and peaks in January or February, said Dr. Roger Johnson, a St. Mary’s Health System pulmonologist and critical care specialist.

Symptoms of influenza include fever, sore throat, cough, congested or runny nose, muscle or body aches, and fatigue. Influenza can cause illnesses serious enough to require hospitalization and can even be deadly.

The best way to prevent becoming ill with influenza is to receive an influenza vaccination as soon as it becomes available each year. Influenza vaccinations must be taken every year because different strains of the virus cause illness from year to year. this year, it is recommended that all people 6 months of age or older receive the influenza vaccine.

Influenza vaccines have a very good safety record. the most common side effects are generally mild. the nasal influenza vaccine (FluMist) contains weakened forms of the viruses and usually does not cause severe symptoms. People who have life-threatening allergies to eggs or any other component of the vaccine should not be vaccinated.

Ask your doctor or go to cdc.gov/flu for more information.

— Max Roll, Live it up