Influenza (commonly called the “flu”) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The information below describes common flu symptoms, how to protect yourself and those close to you from getting the flu, and what to do if you get sick with flu-like symptoms.
Be Aware of Common Flu Symptoms
Influenza usually starts suddenly and may include the following symptoms:Fever (usually high)
Headache
Tiredness (can be extreme)
Cough
Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose
Body aches
Diarrhea and vomiting (more common among children than adults)
Having these symptoms does not always mean that you have the flu. Many different illnesses, including the common cold, can have similar symptoms.
Anyone at any age can have serious complications from the flu, but those at highest risk include:
People over 50
Children between 6 months and 2 years
Women more than 3 months pregnant during the flu season
Anyone living in a long-term care facility
Anyone with chronic heart, lung, or kidney conditions, diabetes, or weakened immune system
Symptoms
Fever - may be high
Headache
Tiredness
Dry cough
Sore throat
Stuffy, congested nose
Muscle aches and stiffness
Other symptoms may include:
Nasal discharge
Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Croupy cough
Chills
Fatigue
Malaise
Sweating
Loss of appetite
Vomiting
Dizziness
Worsening of underlying illness, such as asthma or heart failure
