Causes
The flu is caused by the influenza virus. Each winter, the virus spreads around the world. The strains are usually different from one year to the next.
The two main kinds of influenza viruses, Type A and Type B.
Someone infected with the virus may sneeze or cough. This releases droplets in the air. If you breathe in infected droplets you can become infected. You can also become infected through touch. If you touch a contaminated surface, you may transfer the virus from your hand to your mouth or nose.
Risk Factors
Factors that increase your chance of the flu include:
-
Living or working in crowded group conditions, such as:
- Nursing home
- School
- Military forces
- Daycare center
All the remaining factors increase the risk of developing complications from flu:
- Age: newborn babies and the elderly
- Women in the third trimester of pregnancy
- Diabetes
-
Weakened immune systems, such as in:
- Cancer patients
- AIDS patients
- People taking immunosuppressive drugs
- People who have had their spleen removed
- Chronic lung, heart, kidney, or blood conditions
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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