Millions of people in the United States (somewhere between 10% to 20% of the U.S. residents) develop Influenza each year. On an average, more than 36000 human lives are lost in America every year because of Flu.

Even thought most flu patients recover within one to two weeks, some develop life-threatening complications such as pneumonia. Considering that the flu also makes chronic health problems worse, extra care must be taken, therefore, if a person suffering from a chronic disease catches flu.

What are the common Influenza (Flu) symptoms?

Flu virus attacks the respiratory tract in humans, i.e nose, throat, and lungs. Therefore, most common symptoms involve these organs, as evident by the following list of common flu symptoms.

• Dry/unproductive cough,
• Sore throat,
• Nasal congestion,
• Fever,
• Headache,
• Fatigue,
• Body ache, and
• Joint pain.

Who is more likely to develop serious complications?

• People of age 65 years and older,
• People with chronic medical conditions, and
• Young children are more likely to get complications from influenza.

What are the common complications?

• Pneumonia,
• Bronchitis,
• Sinus infections, and
• Ear infections.

How is the Influenza virus transmitted?

Influenza viruses are usually spread around from person to person in respiratory droplets of coughs and sneezes. The flu viruses can also can be spread through personal contact.

Is the Flu Contagious?

Yes! Stay away from those diagnosed with flu! :)

Ok, I got Flu. Now what?

• Take rest,
• Drink plenty of clear liquids,
• Avoid using alcohol and tobacco, and
• Take medication for relief from the symptoms of flu.

Should I trake Flu vaccine?

Yes. The best way to PREVENT the flu is to get an influenza vaccine (flu shot) each fall -before the start of the annual flu season. Flu vaccine is especially reccommended for those in the high risk group including:

• All children aged 6–23 months,
• Adults aged 65 years and above,
• Pregnant women in their second or third trimester,
• Anyone aged 2 years and above if (s)he has any chronic conditions,
• Care givers,
• Health-care workers, and
• "First Responders".

My child/teenager has Flu & fever. Should I give her Aspirin?

No! Please DO NOT GIVE ASPIRIN to children or teenagers if they have flu-like symptoms – especially if they have fever –without first consulting with your physician. Administering aspirin to children and teenagers who have flu can cause Reye Syndrome -a serious illness. Please ensure that none of their medicines contain Aspirin.

Don't forget to check out Lung Disease News section of this website for the latest Influenza (Flu) Treatment News, and our Lung Disease Articles Library for the latest Influenza (Flu) related Articles.

Note: Consult a qualified medical practitioner if you suspect lung disease. Information published at this mesothelioma lung disease asbestos cancer forum - or most other websites for that matter - should not be relied upon for health decisions. The information presented on this web site is not intended as a substitute for medical care, medical, legal, or professional advise. Please talk with your healthcare provider for all your health concerns.