Influenza (flu) is a viral upper respiratory illness that comes
on suddenly, causing a person to feel very sick with symptoms
such as fever, body aches, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite,
and a dry cough or sore, dry throat. Home treatment to reduce
discomfort is usually all that is needed. In some cases, the flu
can lead to complications, such as bacterial pneumonia. People
who are at high risk for complications include young children up
to 5 years of age, adults age 65 and older, and all those who
have certain health conditions, such as chronic heart or lung
problems or immune system disorders. Yearly immunization with
the inactivated flu vaccine (flu shot) or the nasal spray
vaccine (FluMist) helps reduce the risk of getting the flu and
makes symptoms less severe for people who do get the flu.
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