Do You Know Your Flu Facts?

It’s that time of year again…the dreaded cold and flu season! The colder months are on the horizon, bringing a greater risk of illness as we enter the fall. Check out these cold and flu facts to learn about protection and prevention.

Did You Know?

There are more than 200 viruses that can cause a cold. Rhinoviruses are the most common and spread from person to person through the air and close personal contact.
Adults experience an average of two to four colds per year, mostly between September and May.
There are four types of influenza (flu) viruses, type A, B, C and D. Influenza A and B viruses are the most likely to circulate and cause seasonal epidemics of disease, C is less frequent and mild and D is not known to infect or cause illness in people.
In temperate climates such as Virginia, seasonal epidemics occur mainly during winter, while in tropical regions, such as southern Florida, influenza may occur throughout the year, causing outbreaks to occur more irregularly. Check out this flu activity map updated weekly to see activity levels in your state.
All age groups can be affected, but the following groups are more high risk than others.
- Pregnant women
- Children under 59 months
- Elderly (aged more than 65 years)
- Individuals with chronic medical conditions or immunosuppressive conditions
- Healthcare workers

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022).
Cold vs Flu. The Difference Between Cold and Flu.
Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/coldflu.htm

In addition to protective measures, such as regular hand washing and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, the most effective way to prevent the flu is through vaccination. Flu vaccines have been administered for more than 60 years and during recent seasons, the vaccine has reduced the risk of illness by 40-60%.

Northrop Grumman wants you to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community this flu season. Getting a flu shot should be easy, which is why we provide several free and convenient options:

Active Northrop Grumman employees can print a CVS flu shot voucher and redeem it at a participating CVS Pharmacy. The voucher is valid from Sept. 1, 2023 to March 31, 2024. One voucher is provided per employee. Family members aren’t eligible to use the voucher.
If you’re enrolled in a Northrop Grumman medical plan, you and your covered spouse or domestic partner and eligible dependents can get flu shots from your health care provider or at any location that accepts insurance, including many pharmacies. A flu shot is considered preventive care and is 100% covered by your medical provider.
Active Northrop Grumman employees can get a flu shot at one of 50+ on-site flu shot clinics offered at Northrop Grumman facilities.

For more information, review Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

Written by: Mackenzie Reulein

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