What is influenza?

Influenza, often called the flu, is an acute infection of the upper airway caused by an influenza A or B virus.

Getting sick with influenza also puts you at risk of other infections. These include viral or bacterial pneumonia which affect the lungs. The risk of complications can be life-threatening. Seniors 65 years and older, very young children, people who have lung or heart diseases, certain chronic health conditions or weakened immune systems are at greater risk.

It it a cold or flu? Download the fact sheet.

Download the fact sheet to learn more about how influenza is spread, symptoms, prevention, and home treatment.

Clean hands save lives!

Protect your health and the health of others. Cleaning your hands might seem like a simple thing, but it is important.

Did you know? Cleaning your hands is the most important way to reduce the spread of germs that cause colds, flu, and even serious or life-threatening diseases. Help prevent the spread of infection by washing your hands! Check out these tips to keep your hands germ-free.