Flu, or influenza, is a common disease that affects people of all ages. Most people are ill for a few days while others may be seriously ill and require hospital care. Each year, flu related illnesses cause thousands of deaths. Most deaths directly caused by the flu are in very young or very old people. The flu is primarily spread between people indoors during the winter and early spring. Many flu viruses exist and are passed from an infected person to the nose or throat of others. The risk is greater wherever large numbers of people gather in places like schools, nursing homes, shopping malls, and large companies. The flu can cause a sudden onset of the following symptoms:
* fever and chills,
* muscle aches,
* sore throat and cough,
* nasal congestion and headache, or
* fatigue and weakness.

No specific treatment exists for the flu. Bed rest, proper nutrition, and drinking lots of fluids are important. Antibiotics do not provide relief. Over-the-counter drugs may relieve coughing, fever, and muscle aches. In severe cases anti-viral drugs, such as amantadine, may shorten flu episodes. People who are at risk for getting a serious case of the flu or a complication from it should get a flu shot every year. This group includes:
* All people 65 years of age or older.
* Residents of long-term care facilities.
* Any child or adult, including pregnant women, who has a serious long-term health problem with heart disease, anemia, diabetes, asthma, lung disease, or kidney disease.
* People who are less able to fight infections because of a hereditary disease, HIV infection, or cancer treatment with X-rays or drugs.
* Children and teenagers 6 months to 18 years of age on long-term aspirin treatment.
* Health care and community service workers.
* Anyone who wants to reduce their chance of catching the flu.

It is best to get a flu shot every year (depends on location of the country) in the fall. Children under 9 years of age may need a second shot after one month. The flu shot does not protect against other viruses or prevent anyone from getting the flu if recently exposed. Its purpose is to lessen the risk of getting the flu and its severity if contracted.

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