What is influenza (flu)?

Influenza is a highly infectious acute respiratory illness caused by the
influenza virus. Influenza affects people of all ages Outbreaks of influenza
occur almost every year, usually in winter. This is why it is also known as
seasonal flu.

How serious is flu?

Flu is often self limiting with most people recovering in 2-7 days. However,
flu can be severe and can cause serious illness and death, especially in the
very young and in the elderly. Serious respiratory complications can develop,
including pneumonia and bronchitis, to which older people and those with
certain chronic medical conditions are particularly susceptible. Pregnant
women have also been found to be at increased risk of the complications of
flu. Some people may need hospital treatment and a number of mainly older
people die from influenza each winter.

Is it cold or flu?

It can be difficult at times to tell between the common cold and flu. A cold
is a much less severe illness than flu. The flu symptoms come on suddenly
with fevers and muscle aches. A cold usually starts gradually with symptoms
of a sore throat and a blocked or runny nose.

How is flu transmitted?

Flu is a highly infectious illness. A person carrying the virus can spread
the illness by coughing or sneezing from 1-2 days before they develop
symptoms and for up to a week after symptoms develop.

How can flu be prevented?

Flu can be prevented by vaccination. Flu vaccine is a safe, effective way to
help prevent flu infection, avoiding hospitalisation, reducing flu related
deaths and illnesses.

Why is a flu vaccine required every year?

Each year the seasonal (annual) flu vaccine contains three common influenza
virus strains. The flu virus changes each year this is why a new influenza
vaccine has to be given each year.