Everything You Need to Know About The Flu

What Is Influenza (Flu)?

Influenza viruses cause the flu, a contagious respiratory illness that infects the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. The CDC recommends annual influenza (flu) vaccinations as long as flu activity is ongoing.

What are some common influenza (flu) 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.

* not everyone who gets the influenza (flu) virus will have a fever.

What are the two types of the influenza (flu) virus?

There are two main types of influenza (flu) viruses: types A and B. The influenza A and B viruses that routinely spread in people (human influenza viruses) are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year.

Who is at most risk of getting influenza (flu)?

According to the CDC, children and people of 65+ years are most likely to get sick from influenza (flu).

How effective is the vaccine?

According to the CDC, the effectiveness of influenza vaccination varies depending on several factors, such as the age and health of the recipient.