What is influenza?

Influenza is commonly known as "the flu." It's an infectious disease caused by specific viruses. This respiratory illness can cause mild to severe symptoms and is responsible for more than 30-thousand deaths each year. Symptoms include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, and diarrhea and vomiting. Because these symptoms can occur with several other illnesses, it’s important to have a health professional diagnose this condition, especially if you are at high risk for complications. Those at high risk include people with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, young children, and people age 65 or older. Watch more video about influenza or share your story or experience on video with icyou.