With flu season on the way, it’s a good time to learn about influenza and how to protect against it. Check out these questions and the answers that follow to test your knowledge about the virus.

Q: What is the flu?

A: The flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness that infects the nose, throat and lungs. It is caused by seasonal viruses that circulate throughout communities every year. Flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat and body aches.

Q: How does the flu spread?

A: The flu usually spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Respiratory droplets that contain the flu can enter your nose or mouth this way. You can also get the flu by touching a surface (like a door) contaminated with flu viruses and then touching your face.

Q: Why is avoiding the flu a big deal?

A: Most people recover from the flu after about a week. But for some people, the flu can lead to severe complications (like pneumonia) or even death. In fact, hundreds of thousands of people have to be hospitalized each year due to the flu.

Q: Who is at higher risk for serious flu complications?

A: Anyone can get sick from the flu. But those most vulnerable to serious flu complications include people with chronic illnesses (such as asthma, COPD, diabetes or heart disease); older adults; people with a weakened immune system; and pregnant women and younger children.

Q: Who needs an annual flu vaccination?

A: With very few exceptions, everyone 6 months and older should get a yearly flu vaccination. It’s by far the best way to avoid the flu. It’s also important to follow other prevention practices, like frequent hand-washing.

Q: Is there any treatment for the flu?

A: Yes. If you are at high risk of flu complications and you get flu symptoms, you should call your primary care provider promptly. You may be prescribed antiviral drugs. They can lessen your illness, shorten the time you’re sick and prevent serious complications.

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