What is Flu?
The Flu is a highly contagious illness caused by the influenza virus. The virus infects your lungs and upper airways, which results in the characteristic symptoms of the flu such as a sudden high temperature, general aches and pains and a headache. The flu can make you feel extremely weak and you may find it difficult to even get out of bed. The symptoms of the flu come on suddenly generally last from three to seven days but often leave people feeling drained and tired for a number of weeks.
Flu affects people of all ages. In some people flu can cause serious complications such as pneumonia. Some people are more at risk from Flu than others and that's why the state provides a FREE flu service to these people.
How does the Flu Vaccine work?
The flu vaccine helps your immune system produce antibodies to fight the influenza virus. If you have been vaccinated and you come into contact with the virus, these antibodies will attack it and stop you from getting sick.