Flu, also called influenza, is an infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs — all part of the respiratory system. The flu is caused by a virus and should not be confused with the stomach flu, which causes vomiting or diarrhea.
While most people recover on their own, the flu can sometimes cause severe complications, especially for high-risk groups such as young children, pregnant women, and older adults.
🦠 Who Is at Higher Risk?
Some people have a higher risk of serious flu complications, including:
- Young children under 12 months.
- Pregnant women and those who recently gave birth.
- Adults over 65 years.
- People living or working in shared spaces (e.g., nursing homes, barracks).
- Certain ethnic groups (American Indian, Alaska Native, Black, or Latino).
Although the flu vaccine isn’t 100% effective, it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness.
🤒 Flu Symptoms
The flu usually begins suddenly and feels worse than a common cold.
Common symptoms of influenza include:
- Fever and chills
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Fatigue and weakness
- Shortness of breath
Children may also experience vomiting or diarrhea.
👩⚕️ When to See a Doctor
Most flu cases can be treated at home. However, seek medical help immediately if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Persistent dizziness or seizures
- Severe weakness or worsening chronic conditions
Children should be seen if they have gray or blue lips, dehydration, or breathing trouble.
🧬 Causes of Flu
The influenza virus spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
You can catch the virus:
- By inhaling droplets from the air.
- By touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face.
People with the flu are contagious one day before symptoms and up to a week after they appear.
Flu viruses are constantly changing, which is why annual vaccination is important.
⚠️ Risk Factors
Factors that may increase flu complications include:
- Age: Young children and older adults are most vulnerable.
- Living conditions: Shared spaces like hospitals or nursing homes.
- Weakened immune system: From cancer treatments, HIV/AIDS, or transplants.
- Chronic diseases: Diabetes, heart or lung disease, kidney or liver problems.
- Pregnancy: Especially in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters.
- Obesity: BMI 40 or higher.
- Aspirin use: Under age 20 with flu may cause Reye’s syndrome.
⚕️ Flu Complications
Flu complications can include:
- Pneumonia
- Bronchitis
- Asthma attacks
- Heart problems
- Ear infections
- Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
Pneumonia is the most dangerous complication and can be fatal for high-risk patients.
💉 Flu Prevention
The CDC recommends yearly flu vaccination for everyone aged 6 months or older.
Benefits include:
- Reduced risk of severe flu
- Fewer hospitalizations and deaths
- Protection against multiple virus strains
You can get the flu shot or nasal spray (ages 2–49, if eligible).
Even people with egg allergies can safely receive a flu vaccine.
Getting a flu shot is especially important during the COVID-19 season since both illnesses share similar symptoms.
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