The flu claims the lives of 36,000 people each year in the United States. Over 200,000 people are hospitalized as a result of the flu each year. And as much as twenty percent of the American population will receive the flu vaccine. Flu symptoms include high fever, headache and fatigue, dry cough and sore throat, muscle aches and sometimes severe stomach aches. Complications from flu can turn into serious medical problems, including bacterial pneumonia. At high risk are people over the age of 65, people who have the HIV virus, pregnant women and young children and people who are already suffering from respiratory problems. Health care workers are also at high risk, though they commonly receive vaccinations because of their obvious risk. If you think you have the flu, it’s best to stay … Read entire article »