How serious is the flu in the United States?

For most people the flu is not life-threatening. On average, 5 to 20 percent of the population gets the flu. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications each year and about 36,000 people die from the flu. People who have weakened immune systems are at the greatest risk for serious complications from the flu. For this reason, elderly persons, small children, and people with certain medical conditions like HIV/AIDS must take extra precautions to prevent the flu. Talk to your health care provider if you have any concerns about flu season, which usually occurs in the late fall and winter.

How do I know if I have the flu?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms of the flu can include fever (usually high), body aches, headache, fatigue, sore throat and cough. Although a common cold and the flu share similar symptoms, the flu lasts longer and is usually much more severe. Flu viruses spread in respiratory “droplets” caused by coughing and sneezing. They are spread from person to person, though sometimes people become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

What can I do to avoid the flu?

The CDC recommends yearly vaccination as the single best way to prevent the flu. Be sure and check with your doctor about whether a vaccine is right for you. In addition, regularly washing your hands and covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze with a tissue help prevent sickness every day, but are especially important during flu season -- usually in the fall and winter.

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