What is the flu?

    Researchedby:
    Morgan Pfiffner, Nick Milazzo

    Fact-checked

    by:

    Mike Murray, James Gaylor
    Last Updated: October 25, 2023

    “The flu” is a general term for respiratory infections caused by influenza viruses. Influenza viruses are constantly changing, which means individuals can contract the flu repeatedly. Although the flu isn’t often serious in the general population, newborns, older people, and people with immune issues can develop severe (and even life-threatening) illness.[1][2]

    References

    1. ^The content of this page was partially adapted from MedlinePlus of the National Library of Medicine
    2. ^Christin Peteranderl, Susanne Herold, Carole SchmoldtHuman Influenza Virus InfectionsSemin Respir Crit Care Med.(2016 Aug)