Influenza is a serious, extremely contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza A or B viruses.

Influenza is a serious, extremely contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza A or B viruses. Flu appears most frequently in winter and early spring, and attacks the body by spreading through the upper and/or lower respiratory tract. It can lead to hospitalization and even death.

Get a flu shot

The seasonal flu vaccine protects against the viruses that research suggests will be most common.

Vaccination is important for health care workers and others who live with or care for high-risk people to keep from spreading flu to them.

Everyday preventive actions

Avoid close contact with sick people.

While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.

If sick with flu symptoms, stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone except to get medical care and other necessities.

Cover nose and mouth

Use a tissue when you cough and throw the tissue in the trash after use.

Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth to avoid spreading germs.

Take flu antiviral drugs if prescribed by a doctor.

Antiviral drugs can make the illness milder and shorten the time one is sick.

Studies show that flu antiviral drugs work best for treatment when they are started within two days of getting sick.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention