The "flu" is a contagious disease caused by the Influenza virus. It is spread by coughing, sneezing, or nasal secretions. Other viruses or illnesses can have the same symptoms and are often mistaken for the flu, but only an illness cause by the influenza virus is really the "flu".

Some people , such as infants, the elderly, and those with certain chronic health conditions can get much sicker and are prone to more serious complications from the flu. Every year 36,000 people die from the flu- mostly the elderly. Influenza viruses are always changing. That's why the flu vaccine is updated every year. Because of this, you must get vaccinated annually to protect yourself and your family from the flu and serious flu-related complications. Talk to your doctor about getting the flu vaccine this flu season. You can also ask one of our pharmacists here at Thompson Pharmacy about the Seasonal Flu vaccine and any of the other vaccines now available at our new Immunization Clinics located in our Juniata and Hollidaysburg locations.

Below are some links to help you understand more about the seasonal flu and its vaccine.