About Seasonal Influenza

Seasonal influenza is a contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. In the United States, seasonal outbreaks of influenza often occur during the fall and winter.

Sneeze Seasonal flu is not a minor illness. During a typical flu season 5% - 20% of people in the U.S. become ill; more than 200,000 are hospitalized; and about 36,000 die. Those at greatest risk of serious complications include the very young, those over age 50, and persons with heart disease, lung diseases including asthma and metabolic diseases including diabetes.

Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of catching influenza or other infectious respiratory diseases:

Get your flu shot every year.
Stay healthy by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting enough rest and drinking liquids.
Wash your hands frequently.

Influenza spreads from person to person mainly in respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes. To help stop the spread of influenza and other infectious respiratory diseases:

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your upper sleeve.
If you are sick, stay home and away from others as much as possible.
Keep sick children home and away from school.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.