What is Influenza?

Influenza also known as the flu is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system — your nose, throat and lungs. Influenza is commonly called the flu, but it’s not the same as stomach “flu” viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting. For most people, influenza resolves on its own. But sometimes, influenza and its complications can be deadly.

People at higher risk of developing flu complications include:

• Young children under age 5, and especially those under 2 years

• Adults older than age 65

• Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities

• Pregnant women and women up to two weeks postpartum

• People with weakened immune systems

• People who have chronic illnesses, such as asthma, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease and diabetes

• People who are very obese, with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher
   

Though the annual influenza vaccine isn’t 100 percent effective, it’s still your best defense against the flu.

​

If you’re young and healthy, seasonal influenza usually isn’t serious. Although you may feel miserable while you have it, the flu usually goes away in a week or two with no lasting effects. But high-risk children and adults may develop complications such as:
 

• Pneumonia

• Bronchitis

• Asthma flare-ups

• Heart problems

• Ear infections
   

Pneumonia is the most serious complication. For older adults and people with a chronic illness, pneumonia can be deadly.