Influenza, commonly known as flu, is a contagious disease caused by the influenza virus. It is easily spread by coughing, sneezing, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth or nose. Symptoms include:

• Fever

• Cough

• Sore throat

• Headache

• Chills

• Muscle aches

• Tiredness

• Vomiting

 

Flu is much more severe in pregnant women, infants, the elderly, and people with certain health conditions such as heart, lung or kidney disease or a weakened immune system.