Seasonal Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Each year in the United States on average, 5% to 20% of the population gets the flu; on average, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu-related complications, and; about 36,000 people die from flu-related causes. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications.

Symptoms include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches.

Complications can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration, and worsening of of flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing. People may also become infected by touching surfaces contaminated with flu viruses and then touching their mouth or nose.
 
Prevention: The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like covering your cough, washing your hands, staying home when you are sick, avoiding close contacts with sick people, keeping your distance from other when you are sick, getting plenty of sleep, drinking plenty of fluids etc, often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu.

Consult your healthcare provider if you have questions about whether you should get a flu vaccine.