Facts About The Flu

What is Influenza (also called Flu)?

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent this illness is by getting a flu vaccination each fall.

Every year in the United States, on average: 

5% to 20% of the population gets the flu; 

more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications, and; 

about 36,000 people die from flu. 

Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications. 

Symptoms of Flu 

Symptoms of flu include: 

fever (usually high) 

headache 

extreme tiredness 

dry cough 

sore throat 

runny or stuffy nose 

muscle aches 

Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults 

Complications of Flu 

Complications of flu can include bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes. Children may get sinus problems and ear infections. 

How Flu Spreads 

Flu viruses spread in respiratory droplets caused by coughing and sneezing. They usually spread from person to person, though sometimes people become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 5 days after becoming sick. That means that you can pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick

Source CDC