Flu is caused by viruses that are easily transmitted from person to person. These viruses mainly affect the nose, throat and lungs. Flu symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, nasal congestion, runny nose, headache and fatigue.
Unlike the common cold, the flu occurs unexpectedly and can lead to serious complications. That means pneumonia, bronchitis and even death.
Flu spreads primarily through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of nearby people or remain on surfaces where the virus can survive for up to 48 hours.
Flu vaccines are updated every year. They contain inactivated or weakened flu viruses that cannot cause disease but help the immune system produce antibodies. These antibodies protect against infection when exposed to live influenza viruses. Immunity develops within about two weeks after vaccination.
One of the key benefits of the vaccine is that it significantly reduces the risk of serious illness, hospitalization and death from flu. This is especially important for the elderly, children, pregnant women and people with chronic diseases.
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Source: Ferra
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