Anyone who wants to reduce the likelihood of becoming ill with the regular seasonal flu or spreading flu to others Pregnant women Those age 6 months through age 18; people age 50 and older People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions like diabetes; heart, kidney or lung disease; asthma; anemia or other blood disorders Those who are immunosuppressed (including immunosuppression caused by medications or by human immunodeficiency virus) People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including: Healthcare and emergency medical services personnel Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu Household contacts and caregivers of children from birth up to age 5

Rite Aid stores are stocked with supplies such as alcohol-based hand sanitizers/hand rubs, thermometers, masks and other flu-related items. Stores also are stocked with the prescription medications Tamiflu and Relenza for those patients whose doctor has recommended they take one of these medications or should have a prescription ready if they do require the medications.

The CDC is asking individuals and families to be prepared with flu-related supplies in the event of sickness, so they can avoid making trips out in public while sick and contagious. They also are recommending those who are sick to stay out of schools and businesses to avoid spreading the flu.

Symptoms of the regular seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu virus are similar and include fever or chills in addition to a cough or sore throat. Other symptoms are runny nose, body aches, headache, tiredness and may include diarrhea and vomiting. Those at higher risk for complications from the flu and experiencing any of these symptoms should contact their physician. Antiviral medications may be prescribed and are most effective when started within two days of becoming sick. A physician should also be contacted if someone is having difficulty breathing or has shortness of breath, pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness, severe or persistent vomiting, or flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with a fever or worse cough.

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