Influenza, ("flu") is a serious illness. Influenza is caused by a virus that spreads from infected persons to the nose or throats of others. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, chills, cough, headache, and muscle ache. Anyone can get the flu. For most people influenza lasts a few days, although some may get sicker and need to be hospitalized. The best protection/defense to fighting off the flu includes washing your hands frequently with good old fashioned soap and water. "Clean hands are the single most important factor in preventing the spread of dangerous germs," according to Dr. Julie Gerberding, Director of the CDC. Receiving the flu vaccine is another strong defense against the flu.

• H1N1 (Swine) Flu Update: Tom Courtney, MD, SMMC PrimeCare Infectious Diseases
• Influenza Vaccine: Some Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ
• fluFACTS.com: In-depth Influenza Information
• Flu in Maine: Resources from the Maine Center for Disease Control
• Pandemic Flu Planning: A Guide for Individuals and Families pdf

Flu Clinic Update, 2009: For this season, SMMC Visiting Nurses is no longer holding Flu Clinics at SMMC Diagnostic Center, 13 Industrial Park Rd, Saco. We do continue to administer the vaccine in our clinic at 72 Main Street, Kennebunk: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 8:00am and 1:00pm. For more information, please call our hotline at (207) 283-6868.