Flu can be fatal

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

Yes, the flu can be fatal, especially for vulnerable populations such as older adults, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with certain chronic health conditions.

The flu is primarily transmitted through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face.

Common symptoms include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue.

Getting vaccinated annually, practicing good hygiene such as frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces can help protect you from the flu.

Everyone aged six months and older is recommended to get the flu vaccine each year, with particular emphasis on high-risk groups like older adults, young children, and individuals with chronic health conditions.

Flu season in the UK usually runs from October to March, with peak activity often occurring in the colder winter months.

Yes, antiviral medications can treat the flu. These are most effective when taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications can help alleviate symptoms.

Complications from the flu can include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections, and worsening of chronic medical conditions, which can be life-threatening.

People with the flu are most contagious in the first 3-4 days after their illness begins, but they can spread the virus starting 1 day before symptoms appear and up to 7 days after becoming sick.

No, you cannot get the flu from the flu vaccine. The vaccine contains inactivated virus or viral particles that cannot cause illness.

If you think you have the flu, you should stay home, rest, drink plenty of fluids, and use over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms. If you are in a high-risk group or experience severe symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.

In addition to vaccination, other preventive measures include washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with the sick, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces regularly.

Yes, although both are respiratory illnesses, the flu is generally more severe, with symptoms such as high fever, body aches, and fatigue being more intense and the potential for serious complications.

Most people experience only mild side effects from the flu vaccine, such as soreness at the injection site, a low-grade fever, or muscle aches, which generally resolve within a few days.