Influenza

Influenza also known as flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year. 

What are the symptoms for flu?


People who have flu often feel some or all of these signs and symptoms:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches 
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults. 

Who is at risk?


Anyone can get the flu (including healthy people), and serious problems related to flu can happen at any age, but some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick. This includes people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), people who are overweight, those who are pregnant, and children younger than five years. 
Flu Vaccine Fact Sheet 1
Flu Vaccine Fact Sheet 2