Understanding the Flu Virus and How to Protect Yourself – A Comprehensive Guide

The flu virus is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects millions of people around the world every year. It is caused by influenza viruses, which constantly change and evolve, making it difficult for scientists to develop effective vaccines.

The symptoms of the flu can vary, but commonly include fatigue, fever, headache, muscle aches, cough, sore throat, and runny or stuffy nose. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can last for a week or more. In some cases, the flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia, especially in young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.

One of the main ways the flu virus spreads is through tiny droplets that are produced when people with the flu cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby or be inhaled into the lungs. Another way the virus spreads is by touching surfaces or objects that have the virus on them and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. Therefore, it is important to practice good respiratory hygiene, such as covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze, and washing your hands regularly to prevent the spread of the virus.

In addition to good hygiene practices, getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and others from the flu. The flu vaccine can help prevent the flu or reduce the severity of the illness if you do get infected. It is recommended that everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine every year, especially those who are at higher risk of complications from the flu. This includes young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with chronic medical conditions such as asthma or diabetes.

In conclusion, understanding the flu virus and how it spreads can help you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and others. By practicing good respiratory hygiene, getting vaccinated, and taking care of your health, you can reduce your risk of getting the flu and minimize its impact if you do become infected. Stay healthy and stay informed!

Understanding the Flu Virus

The flu, also known as influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus primarily affects the nose, throat, and lungs.

Flu symptoms can vary from mild to severe and typically include cough, fever, fatigue, sore throat, headache, and body aches. It is common for individuals infected with the flu virus to experience a sudden onset of symptoms.

The flu virus can cause complications, especially in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. These complications can include pneumonia, sinus infections, ear infections, and worsening of chronic medical conditions.

The best way to protect yourself from the flu virus is by getting an annual flu vaccine. The vaccine helps your body develop immunity to the specific strains of the flu virus predicted to circulate each season. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, can reduce your risk of getting the flu.

If you do get the flu, it is recommended to stay home from work or school to prevent spreading the virus to others. Rest, stay hydrated, and take over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms such as fever and body aches. If your symptoms worsen or you are in a high-risk group, consult a healthcare professional.

Understanding the flu virus and taking proactive measures to protect yourself and others can help prevent the spread of the flu and its complications.

Symptoms	Description
Cough	A reflex action that helps clear the airways of mucus and irritants.
Fever	An elevated body temperature often associated with illness.
Fatigue	A feeling of extreme tiredness or exhaustion.
Sore Throat	Pain or irritation in the throat that often worsens when swallowing.
Headache	A pain or ache in the head, often caused by tension or illness.

What is the Flu Virus?

The flu virus, also known as influenza, is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. It is caused by different strains of the influenza virus and can lead to various symptoms, including fever, fatigue, headache, sore throat, cough, and muscle aches. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can often last for several days or even weeks.

The flu virus is usually spread through droplets from infected individuals who cough, sneeze, or talk, and can also be contracted by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face or mouth. The virus can be particularly dangerous for certain populations, such as young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.

Recognizing the symptoms of the flu virus is important in order to seek timely medical attention and take necessary precautions to prevent its spread. Symptoms can appear within one to four days after exposure and may include a sudden onset of fever, chills, body aches, fatigue, headache, sore throat, cough, and congestion.

While most cases of the flu can be managed with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications, severe cases may require medical intervention. It is also essential to take preventive measures such as getting vaccinated yearly, practicing good hygiene like frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and staying home when feeling unwell to prevent the spread of the flu virus.

If you experience symptoms of the flu virus, it is important to stay home, get plenty of rest, drink fluids, and seek medical advice if necessary. By taking these precautions, you can protect yourself and others from the flu virus and minimize its impact on your health and well-being.

How Does the Flu Virus Spread?

The flu virus is highly contagious and can spread easily from person to person. It typically spreads through respiratory droplets that are released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or can be inhaled into the lungs.

Another way the flu virus can spread is by touching surfaces or objects that have flu virus on them and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. This is why it’s important to wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face as much as possible.

People who are infected with the flu virus are contagious starting from one day before they develop symptoms and up to one week after they become sick. This means that even before someone shows signs of having the flu, they can still spread the virus to others.

The flu virus can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. It’s important to note that not everyone who has the flu will experience all of these symptoms, and some people may have symptoms that are more severe than others.

It’s especially important to take precautions during flu season to protect yourself and others from getting sick. This includes getting a flu vaccine, washing your hands regularly, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and staying home if you are feeling unwell.

By understanding how the flu virus spreads and taking preventative measures, you can help reduce the spread of the virus and protect yourself and those around you from infection.

Common Symptoms of the Flu

The flu, caused by the influenza virus, is a highly contagious respiratory infection. Its symptoms can range from mild to severe and typically start within 1-4 days after exposure to the virus. Recognizing these common symptoms can help you seek appropriate medical care and take necessary precautions to avoid spreading the infection.

Symptom	Description
Fatigue	A feeling of extreme tiredness and lack of energy.
Cough	A persistent dry or wet cough that can be accompanied by chest congestion.
Fever	An elevated body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) that can last for several days.
Headache	Aching pain in the head, often accompanied by sensitivity to light and noise.

Other common symptoms of the flu may include sore throat, body aches, nasal congestion, and chills. It’s important to note that these symptoms can vary in severity and may be different for each individual.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid contact with others to prevent the spread of the virus. If your symptoms worsen or persist, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.

Remember, good hygiene practices such as washing your hands regularly, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and getting vaccinated annually can help reduce the risk of flu infection.

Who is at Risk for the Flu?

Anyone can contract the flu virus, but there are certain groups of people who are at a higher risk of developing complications from the infection. These individuals are more likely to experience severe symptoms and require medical attention.

High-Risk Groups

Some groups of people who are at an increased risk for the flu include:

Age Group	Medical Conditions
Children under 5 years old	Asthma
Adults over 65 years old	Diabetes
Pregnant women	Heart disease
Individuals with weakened immune systems	Kidney disease
Individuals living in long-term care facilities	Lung disease

Symptoms to Watch Out For

If you belong to any of these high-risk groups, it is essential to be vigilant for flu symptoms. Common symptoms of the flu include:

• Sore throat
• Cough
• Fever
• Headache
• Fatigue

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment can help prevent complications and reduce the severity of the illness.

Complications Associated with the Flu

While the flu is often seen as a common illness that leads to temporary discomfort, it can also cause various complications. These complications can range from mild to severe and may require medical attention. It is important to be aware of these complications and their symptoms in order to seek appropriate treatment.

Sore Throat and Headache

A sore throat and headache are common symptoms of the flu. While these symptoms may seem mild, they can develop into more serious complications. If the sore throat persists or worsens, it could be a sign of a secondary infection such as strep throat. Headaches can also be a symptom of sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinuses that can occur as a result of a flu infection.

Cough and Respiratory Issues

A persistent cough is a common symptom of the flu, but it can lead to complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes that can cause difficulty breathing and chest pain. Pneumonia is a more serious infection that can cause severe respiratory issues and may require hospitalization.

Other respiratory complications associated with the flu include asthma exacerbation and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). These complications can be life-threatening and should be treated immediately.

Fever and Fatigue

Fever and fatigue are hallmark symptoms of the flu, but they can also indicate complications. If the fever persists and is accompanied by severe body aches, it could be a sign of a secondary bacterial infection. Fatigue that lasts for an extended period can be a sign of post-viral fatigue syndrome, which can leave individuals feeling exhausted and unable to carry out their normal activities.

It is important to recognize these complications and seek medical attention if you experience any severe or persistent symptoms. By taking proper precautions and seeking timely treatment, you can protect yourself from the potential complications associated with the flu.

How to Protect Yourself

To prevent flu infection, it’s important to take certain precautions. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself:

1. Wash your hands frequently: Use soap and water to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or being in public areas. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

2. Cover your mouth and nose: Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. This can help prevent the spread of flu viruses through respiratory droplets.

3. Avoid close contact with sick people: Try to stay away from people who are sick or showing symptoms of the flu, such as a sore throat, fatigue, cough, fever, or headache. If you must be around someone who is sick, wear a mask to protect yourself.

4. Stay home if you’re sick: If you have flu symptoms, it’s important to stay home and avoid going to work, school, or other public places. This can help prevent the spread of the virus to others.

5. Get vaccinated: The flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from the flu. Make sure to get vaccinated every year, as the flu virus can change and new strains can emerge.

6. Practice good hygiene: Besides washing your hands, make sure to clean and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and cell phones. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, as this can introduce the virus into your body.

By following these steps, you can reduce your risk of flu infection and help protect yourself and those around you from the flu.

Get Vaccinated

One of the most effective ways to protect yourself against the flu virus is to get vaccinated. The flu vaccine helps to build up your body’s immunity to the virus, reducing your chances of getting sick or experiencing severe symptoms.

Flu symptoms can vary, but they often include a sore throat, fatigue, cough, and headache. The flu virus is highly contagious and can be spread through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Getting vaccinated not only helps to protect yourself, but also those around you.

Each year, the flu vaccine is developed to target the strains of the virus that are most likely to circulate in the coming flu season. It’s recommended that everyone six months and older receive the flu vaccine annually.

It’s important to note that the flu vaccine doesn’t guarantee complete immunity, but it can significantly reduce the severity of flu symptoms if you do become infected. In some cases, it can even prevent infection altogether.

Getting vaccinated is a simple and relatively painless process. The vaccine is typically administered as a shot, but a nasal spray option exists for some individuals. Talk to your healthcare provider or local pharmacy to schedule your flu vaccine and protect yourself from the flu.

Remember: Getting vaccinated is a proactive step you can take to protect yourself and those around you from the flu. Don’t underestimate the importance of flu vaccination in preventing infection and reducing the impact of the flu virus.

Practice Good Hygiene

The flu is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. It spreads easily from person to person, especially through droplets from coughs and sneezes. Practicing good hygiene is essential in preventing the spread of the flu virus.

When you have the flu, it’s important to cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow to prevent the spread of the virus. Dispose of used tissues properly and wash your hands immediately afterwards with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Washing your hands is one of the most effective ways to prevent the flu. Make sure to thoroughly clean all areas of your hands, including between your fingers and under your nails. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, as this can increase your risk of contracting the virus.

Avoid close contact with individuals who are sick or showing symptoms of the flu. If you are feeling unwell, it’s best to stay home and avoid contact with others to prevent the spread of the virus. Additionally, clean and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces, such as doorknobs and countertops, to minimize the risk of infection.

By practicing good hygiene and taking these preventive measures, you can reduce your risk of contracting the flu and protect yourself from the associated symptoms such as headache, fatigue, sore throat, and cough. Stay healthy!

Avoid Close Contact

The flu virus is highly contagious and can be easily spread from person to person. It is important to take precautions to avoid close contact with individuals who may be infected. Close contact includes situations where you are within six feet of a person who has the flu, such as being in the same room or sharing items with them.

When an infected person coughs or sneezes, droplets containing the flu virus can travel through the air and enter your body through your mouth, nose, or eyes. This can lead to infection and the onset of flu symptoms such as headache, fatigue, sore throat, cough, and body aches.

To reduce the risk of catching the flu, it is recommended to avoid close contact with sick individuals whenever possible. If you must be in close proximity to someone with the flu, try to maintain a distance of at least six feet and take additional precautions such as wearing a face mask and washing your hands regularly.

Ways to Avoid Close Contact
1. Stay home when you are sick to avoid spreading the infection to others.
2. Avoid crowded places, especially during flu season.
3. If possible, limit close contact with sick individuals, including hugging, kissing, or shaking hands.
4. Use tissues or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and dispose of tissues properly.
5. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public places or touching surfaces that may harbor the flu virus.

By avoiding close contact with infected individuals, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting the flu and experiencing its unpleasant symptoms. Taking these simple precautions can help protect yourself and others from the flu virus.

Cover Your Mouth and Nose

When it comes to protecting yourself and others from the flu virus, one of the most important things you can do is cover your mouth and nose. The flu is primarily spread through respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. By covering your mouth and nose, you can help prevent these droplets from being released into the air and potentially infecting others.

The Importance of Properly Covering Your Mouth and Nose

Properly covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing is essential for reducing the spread of the flu virus. When you cough or sneeze without covering your mouth and nose, respiratory droplets containing the flu virus can travel up to 6 feet and potentially infect those around you. By covering your mouth and nose, you can greatly reduce the distance that these droplets can travel and minimize the risk of spreading the infection.

How to Cover Your Mouth and Nose

There are several ways to properly cover your mouth and nose to prevent the spread of the flu virus:

• Use a tissue or your elbow: If you have a tissue available, use it to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. If a tissue is not readily available, cough or sneeze into your elbow rather than your hands.
• Dispose of tissues properly: If you use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose, make sure to immediately dispose of it in a trash bin and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
• Wear a mask: In high-risk situations, such as during a flu outbreak or when caring for someone with the flu, wearing a mask can provide an extra layer of protection by preventing respiratory droplets from being released into the air.

By following these simple steps to cover your mouth and nose, you can help prevent the spread of the flu virus and protect yourself and those around you from infection. Remember, symptoms of the flu can include fever, fatigue, headache, cough, and body aches. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention and take steps to prevent further spread of the virus.

Stay Home if You’re Sick

If you are experiencing cough, fatigue, fever, sore throat, or headache, it could be a sign of a flu infection. In order to prevent the spread of the virus, it is important to stay home if you’re sick.

By staying home, you can help protect yourself and others from getting infected. When you have symptoms of the flu, you are more likely to spread the virus to those around you, especially if you are in close contact with others.

Staying home when you’re sick also allows you to rest and recover. The flu can be a debilitating illness, causing high fever, body aches, and extreme tiredness. By staying home, you can give your body the rest it needs to fight off the infection and get better quicker.

In addition to staying home, it is important to practice good hygiene habits to avoid spreading the flu virus. Make sure to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Avoid touching your face, as this can transfer the virus from your hands to your nose or mouth.

If you have symptoms of the flu, it is recommended to stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever has resolved without the use of fever-reducing medications. This helps to ensure that you are no longer contagious and reduces the risk of infecting others.

Remember, staying home when you’re sick is not only beneficial for your own health but also for the health of those around you. Take care of yourself and take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the flu virus.

Clean and Disinfect Surfaces

To protect yourself and others from the flu virus, it is important to regularly clean and disinfect surfaces in your home and workplace. The flu virus can survive on surfaces for up to 48 hours, so it is essential to take proper precautions to prevent the spread of infection.

Common surfaces that should be cleaned and disinfected include doorknobs, light switches, countertops, phones, keyboards, and bathroom fixtures. These are frequently touched surfaces that can harbor flu viruses and increase the risk of transmission.

When cleaning surfaces, use a detergent or soap and water to remove dirt and debris. After cleaning, it is important to disinfect the surfaces to kill any remaining germs, including the flu virus. Choose a disinfectant that is effective against viruses, such as those containing alcohol or bleach.

Follow the instructions on the disinfectant product label for proper use, including the recommended contact time and any safety precautions. Be sure to ventilate the area while using disinfectants and wear gloves to protect your hands.

Frequently disinfecting surfaces, especially during flu season or when someone in your household is experiencing flu symptoms, can help prevent the spread of the virus. Combining surface cleaning and disinfection with other preventive measures, such as regular handwashing and getting vaccinated against the flu, can further reduce the risk of infection.

Symptoms	Virus	Sore throat	Cough	Fatigue	Infection	Fever	Flu

Boost Your Immune System

In order to protect yourself from the flu virus and other common infections, it is important to strengthen your immune system. A strong immune system can help your body fight off viruses and reduce the severity of symptoms if you do become infected.

1. Eat a Healthy Diet

A well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help boost your immune system. These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can support your body’s natural defenses.

2. Get Plenty of Sleep

Adequate sleep is crucial for a healthy immune system. During sleep, your body repairs and rejuvenates itself, helping to strengthen your immune response. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.

In addition to a healthy diet and enough sleep, there are other steps you can take to boost your immune system:

• Exercise regularly: Physical activity can enhance your immune system by increasing circulation and promoting the production of immune cells.
• Manage stress: Chronic stress can weaken your immune system, so find healthy ways to manage stress such as practicing yoga or meditation.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out toxins and support the proper functioning of your immune system.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoid close contact with sick individuals to reduce your risk of infection.

Remember, even with a strong immune system, it is still important to get a yearly flu vaccine to protect against specific strains of the flu virus. If you do experience symptoms such as headache, cough, fever, or sore throat, it is important to rest, stay hydrated, and seek medical attention if necessary.

By incorporating these healthy habits into your daily routine, you can give your immune system a boost and better protect yourself against the flu and other infections.

Stay Active and Eat Healthy

When flu season arrives, it’s important to take steps to keep your immune system strong and healthy. One way to do this is by maintaining an active lifestyle and eating a balanced diet.

Exercise Regularly

Engaging in regular physical activity can help boost your immune system, making it more resistant to the flu virus. Exercise also helps to reduce stress, which can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to illness. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, most days of the week.

Eat a Nutritious Diet

Your diet plays a crucial role in supporting your immune system. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your meals. These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help strengthen your immune system and protect against flu symptoms.

In addition, staying hydrated is important for overall health and immune function. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated and to flush out any toxins.

Avoid processed foods, excessive sugar, and alcohol, as they can weaken your immune system and make it harder for your body to fight off the flu virus.

By staying active and eating a healthy diet, you can strengthen your immune system and reduce your risk of contracting the flu. Remember to also practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, to further protect yourself from the flu virus.

Manage Stress

Stress can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to infections. When your body is stressed, it produces a hormone called cortisol, which can suppress the immune system’s response to viruses like the flu. It’s important to manage your stress levels to help protect yourself from the flu virus.

Some common symptoms of stress include a sore throat, headache, and cough. These symptoms can also be symptoms of the flu, so it’s important to take care of your mental well-being to prevent additional unnecessary worry.

There are many strategies you can use to manage stress and reduce your risk of getting the flu. Taking time for yourself, practicing self-care activities like meditation or exercise, and getting enough sleep can all help to reduce stress levels. It’s also important to reach out for support from friends and family if you are feeling overwhelmed.

Remember: managing stress is an essential part of flu prevention. By taking care of your mental and emotional well-being, you can strengthen your immune system and reduce your risk of getting the flu virus. If you develop flu symptoms such as a fever, it’s important to seek medical attention and follow proper protocols for flu treatment.

Follow Recommendations from Health Officials

In order to protect yourself and others from the flu virus, it is important to follow the recommendations from health officials. These recommendations are based on scientific research and are designed to reduce the spread of infection.

Get Vaccinated

One of the most effective ways to protect yourself from the flu is to get vaccinated. The flu vaccine helps your body develop immunity to the virus, reducing the likelihood that you will get sick. It is recommended that everyone over the age of six months get vaccinated every year.

Practice Good Hand Hygiene

The flu virus can be spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be spread by touching surfaces that have the virus on them and then touching your face. Practicing good hand hygiene can help reduce the risk of infection. This includes washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing or sneezing, and using hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.

Additionally, it is important to avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, as this can provide a pathway for the virus to enter your body.

Stay Home if You’re Sick

If you develop symptoms of the flu, such as fever, cough, fatigue, headache, or sore throat, it is important to stay home and avoid contact with others. This will help prevent the spread of the virus to others who may be more vulnerable to severe illness.

By following these recommendations from health officials, you can help protect yourself and others from the flu virus. Remember to stay informed about current guidelines and updates from health authorities to ensure you are taking the appropriate precautions.

Q&A:

What is the flu virus?

The flu virus is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs.

How does the flu spread?

The flu spreads through droplets when someone infected with the virus coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching a surface or object that has the flu virus on it and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

The symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea.

How can I protect myself from the flu?

To protect yourself from the flu, it is important to get a flu shot every year, wash your hands frequently with soap and water, avoid close contact with sick people, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze, and clean and disinfect frequently-touched objects and surfaces.

When should I see a doctor if I have flu symptoms?

If you have flu symptoms and are at high risk for complications, or if your symptoms are severe or worsening, it is recommended to see a doctor. High-risk individuals include young children, pregnant women, adults over 65, and people with certain medical conditions.

What is the flu virus?

The flu virus is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs.

How does the flu virus spread?

The flu virus spreads mainly by droplets made when people with the flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby and can also be inhaled into the lungs.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

The symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, and fatigue.

How can I protect myself from the flu?

To protect yourself from the flu, you should get a flu vaccine every year, wash your hands frequently, avoid close contact with sick people, and clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with flu viruses.

Who is most at risk for complications from the flu?

Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with certain chronic medical conditions are at a higher risk of developing complications from the flu.