flu

Seasonal Flu Basics

Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It spreads from person-to-person and can cause mild to severe illness; and in some cases, can lead to death.

* In the United States, yearly outbreaks of seasonal flu usually happen during the fall through early spring.
* The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year.
* Flu viruses can cause illness in people of any age group. Children are most likely to get sick because their immune systems aren’t strong enough to fight off the infection.
* Some groups are more likely to have complications from the seasonal flu. These include:
o those age 65 and older
o children younger than 2 years old
o people of any age who have chronic medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, asthma, congestive heart failure, lung disease)
* Complications from the flu can include:
o bacterial pneumonia
o ear or sinus infections
o dehydration
o worsening of chronic medical conditions