Influenza, or 'flu', is a highly contagious acute viral infection that affects people of all ages. It is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus.

It typically starts suddenly with fever, chills, headache, aching muscles, general prostration and a cough or other respiratory symptoms. While most people recover without complications in 1-2 weeks, flu can cause serious illness and death, especially in the very young and the elderly.

Various strains of the virus circulate throughout the world year-round, causing local outbreaks.

Flu epidemics occur mainly in the winter months, but can occur at any time.

Influenza can be subdivided into several categories.

Seasonal Influenza (Flu)

Influenza (or flu) is a common respiratory illness affecting millions in North America & Europe each year. In North America, flu season usually runs from November to April.

Avian Influenza

Avian influenza is a contagious viral infection that can affect all species of birds. On rare occasions, it can cause disease in humans.

Pandemic Influenza

People are exposed to many different strains of the influenza virus during their lives. Although though the virus changes, their previous bouts of influenza may offer some protection against infection caused by a similar strain of the virus. However, three to four times each century, for unknown reasons, a radical change takes place in the influenza A virus causing a new strain to emerge which can spread rapidly around the globe and cause serious health problems.

There is currently no pandemic flu in the world.

What You Can Do?

The most effective way to protect yourself from the flu is to be vaccinated each year in the fall. Regular hand washing is another way to help minimize your risk.

Washing your hands is more important than ever. By washing your hands often, you will reduce your chance of becoming infected.