Talking Points
What is the Flu?
- The flu is an illness caused by flu viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Anyone can get the flu. However, there are several groups at higher risk for severe illness or complications if infected.
- Flu symptoms range in severity and can include fever, cough, fatigue, headache, and a runny or stuffy nose. The flu can also cause vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children.
- Most people who get the flu have mild illness. However, severe cases, particularly among young children and people with underlying chronic disease, can be fatal. As of May 2025, there have been 226 pediatric deaths associated with the flu during the 2024-25 flu season. This is the highest number of pediatric deaths from the flu, in one flu season, over the last 15 years in the United States. Getting the yearly flu vaccine is the best protection against a potentially life-threatening flu infection. All adults should be aware of emergency flu symptoms and complications for adults and children and seek medical care if needed.
Flu Transmission
- A person with the flu can spread the virus when they cough, sneeze, or speak with others from a close distance.
- Less commonly, you can catch the flu by touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
Flu Vaccination and Prevention
- Vaccination: Getting a yearly flu vaccine is the best protection against flu infection, particularly when a severe flu season occurs, for everyone age 6 months or older. Eligibility for different types of flu vaccines is determined by your age, health, and any allergies to the flu vaccine or its ingredients.
- Other Forms of Prevention: In addition to vaccination, several prevention habits can help protect yourself and others against infection. Washing your hands, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding contact with others when sick can offer additional protection.
Flu Treatment
- The flu usually causes mild symptoms that can be treated at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for pain and fever as needed.
- In some cases, antiviral drugs prescribed by a healthcare provider can make flu illness milder, shorten the time you are sick, and prevent serious complications.
- Contact a healthcare provider if you or someone you are caring for is experiencing severe flu symptoms, such as trouble breathing, seizures, severe muscle pain, or a fever or cough that improves but then returns or worsens. Learn more about severe flu symptoms in children and adults.
