What Flu Is
Influenza (commonly called “the flu”) is a contagious respiratory
illness. It’s caused by various strains of Influenza viruses; from
the pandemic flu that swept the U.S. in 1917-18, to the “Bird Flu”
making headlines today. These viruses are related, and all can cause severe
illness and life-threatening complications. However, you can take simple
steps to prevent the spread of any Influenza strain. The Ottawa County Health
Department has created this website so that its residents will be better
informed about what Influenza is, how it’s transmitted and how to
prevent its spread. Because, the things you do to prevent the flu today,
are the same things you can do to prevent pandemic flu tomorrow.
