Flu

Flu Risk Factors: Who’s Most Likely to Get Seriously Ill from the Flu

Certain groups face a much higher risk of severe flu complications, including hospitalization.

People most at risk include:

– Adults 65 years and older
– Young children under 5 (especially under 2)
– Pregnant women
– People with chronic conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, etc.)
– People with weakened immune systems
– Those who are severely obese
– Residents of nursing homes or long-term care facilities

Flu Symptoms: Complete List and How to Tell Flu from a Cold

Flu symptoms come on suddenly and hit hard—often described as feeling “hit by a truck.” A common cold develops slowly; the flu does not.

Typical flu symptoms:

– High fever (usually above 100.4°F / 38°C)
– Chills and sweats
– Severe muscle and body aches
– Dry, persistent cough
– Extreme fatigue and weakness
– Headache
– Sore throat
– Runny or stuffy nose
– Sometimes nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (especially in children)

The classic trio: sudden fever + body aches + exhaustion.

When to See a Doctor for the Flu

Most healthy people recover at home, but seek medical care right away if you’re in a high-risk group or notice:

– Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
– Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
– Sudden dizziness or confusion
– Severe or persistent vomiting
– Symptoms that improve then worsen with fever and worse cough

Antiviral medications work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset and can shorten illness and reduce complications.

How the Flu Spreads: Influenza Transmission Explained

The influenza virus spreads mainly through tiny droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. You can also pick it up by touching contaminated surfaces (phones, doorknobs, keyboards) and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Key points:
– You’re contagious starting about 1 day before symptoms appear
– Most adults spread the virus for 5–7 days; children and immunocompromised people spread it longer
– Strains change frequently, so immunity from a past infection may not protect against new ones

Flu Complications: Serious Problems That Can Develop

In healthy people, the flu is miserable but usually not dangerous. In high-risk groups, it can trigger:

– Pneumonia (bacterial or viral)
– Bronchitis
– Sinus and ear infections
– Worsening of chronic conditions (asthma attacks, heart failure flares)
– Inflammation of the heart (myocarditis)
– Rarely, brain inflammation or seizures

Thousands die from flu-related complications every year, mostly among older adults and those with underlying health conditions.

How to Prevent the Flu

– Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
– Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
– Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow
– Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily
– Stay home when sick and keep distance from others
– Avoid close contact with sick people
– Avoid crowded indoor spaces when flu is widespread in your community

How Is the Flu Diagnosed?

Doctors usually diagnose based on symptoms, especially during peak flu season. If needed, they may use:

– Rapid influenza diagnostic test (nasal or throat swab) – quick results but can miss cases
– More accurate molecular (PCR) tests

Flu Treatment: What Helps Most

– Plenty of rest
– Stay hydrated (water, broth, herbal tea, electrolyte drinks)
– Over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
– Antiviral drugs (if prescribed early) can shorten duration and lower complication risk
– Avoid giving aspirin to children or teenagers due to risk of Reye’s syndrome

Best Home Remedies for Flu Relief

– Warm broths, soups, and teas (soothe throat, maintain hydration)
– Humidifier or steamy showers for congestion
– Saline nasal sprays or neti pot rinses
– Honey (ages 1+) for cough
– Elevate head while sleeping
– Stay home at least 24 hours after fever breaks naturally

Quick Flu Facts

– Flu season typically runs fall through spring, peaking in winter
– Children are the most common spreaders
– You can spread the virus before you feel sick
– Nearly 1 in 5 people catch it in a typical season
– Illness usually lasts 1–2 weeks; worst symptoms ease in 2–3 days
– Fatigue can linger for weeks
– First signs often mimic a cold, but flu escalates fast