Seasonal flu (“flu” or “influenza”) is a contagious illness caused by the influenza virus. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include fever, cough, muscle aches, headache, and general weakness. In the United States, flu season typically starts late fall and lasts until the end of March each year. The best ways to prevent the spread of seasonal flu are:
- An influenza immunization
- Cleaning your hands often with soap and warm water or alcohol based cleaner
- Avoiding close contact with those who are sick
What is the difference between a cold or the flu?
Flu: What You Can Do - Caring For People At Home
A pamphlet, video, and learning tools explaining symptoms of flu, how to take care of someone ill with the flu, how to avoid getting the flu, and how to prevent giving the flu to others are available through the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH).
BPHC Flu Brochure (I have the flu, what should I do?)
English | Chinese | Haitian Creole | Spanish | Vietnamese
For Health Care Providers
Find patient education materials and other clinician tools here.
Service Requests
For service requests, please fill out the Service Request Form and email it to Sandra Vasquez at svasquez@bphc.org, or fax it to her attention at 617-534-2297.
(Return to Flu Home Page)