Influenza (Flu)

Influenza Basics

Getting the flu feels miserable, and can sometimes make you dangerously sick. Find out how to protect yourself and those around you, as well as how to identify the flu, and what you should do if you get sick.

Prevent the Flu: Videos
Video series featuring the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Ed Ehlinger, interviewing Minnesotans about influenza and flu shots.
Influenza (Flu)
Information for the general public about influenza and influenza vaccine.
When to Get Medical Help for Flu Symptoms
Influenza (Flu) Information for Parents
Fact sheet about influenza and children, including prevention, symptoms and treatment.
Pregnant? Get a Flu Shot
Information for pregnant women about influenza and influenza vaccine.
Self-Screening Checklist for FluMist
If you are healthy and between the ages of 2 and 49, the FluMist nasal vaccine may be right for you.
Key Facts About Influenza and the Influenza Vaccine
CDC: Information on flu symptoms, prevention, complications, and who should get the flu shot or FluMist this year. Attention: Non-MDH link
Religious Leaders' Approval of Use of Vaccines containing Porcine Gelatin
Observant Muslims and Jews have expressed concerns about pork gelatin in some vaccines, including a couple influenza products. Learn more about which vaccines include gelatin and read a statement by Muslim and Jewish scholars saying that these vaccines are acceptable. Attention: Non-MDH link
Preventing the Flu
CDC: Influenza vaccination, protecting yourself from flu germs, and antiviral treatment. Attention: Non-MDH link
Faces of Influenza
The American Lung Association has collected stories from actual people, some famous, about the importance of getting flu shots. Attention: Non-MDH link
Cover Your Cough
Stop the spread of germs that make you and others sick. Properly covering your cough will help you keep from spreading influenza.
Hand Hygiene
Proper hand washing significantly reduces the spread of the diseases like flu and the common cold.