Influenza Health Center

Millions of people in the United States get the influenza virus each year and most will get better within a week or two. 

Thousands of people in the US develop pneumonia or a brain infection from the influenza virus and end up in the hospital, so it's important to know when your symptoms get severe.

Anyone at any age can have serious complications from influenza and those who are at the highest risk are:

  • People over the age of 65.
  • Anyone living with chronic heart, lung, kidney conditions, diabetes, or a weak immune system.
  • Children younger than 2 years old.
  • Women who are more than 3 months pregnant during the flu season.

Complications from influenza can include:

  • Pneumonia
  • Encephalitis (infection of the brain)
  • Seizures
  • Meningitis

The best step to take to avoid catching influenza is to get an influenza vaccine.

Last Updated:
March 21, 2014
Source:
dailyrx.com