With Black Friday and the official kick-off of holiday mania just a week away, Santas are gearing up for the season—and this year, that doesn’t just mean dusting off the red suit and beard. As they prepare to populate the malls, the Associated Press reports, Santas across the country are hoping for a little gift from U.S. public health officials—a chance to cut the line for the swine flu vaccine.
Worried about catching the flu or swine flu? Want to learn some ways to prevent flu? Then read on to learn more about flu — what flu is, how flu is spread, and who’s at greatest risk for getting flu. Knowledge is power when it comes to preventing flu — and we want you and your family members to stay well!
What’s the difference between cold and flu?
The common cold and flu are both contagious viral infections of the respiratory tract. Although the symptoms can be similar, flu is much worse. A cold may drag you down a bit, but the flu can make you shudder at the very thought of getting out of bed.