What is Influenza?

Influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by A and B viruses that may affect 20 to 50% of the population every year. Outbreaks usually occur during the fall or winter months, peak in about 3 weeks and subside within another 3-4 weeks.

In addition to the severity of flu symptoms and the large number of people affected, influenza is significant due to the seriousness of complications that may develop. 36,000 deaths occur annually in the United States due to flu related illness. Most at risk are the elderly, the newborn, and those with chronic disease such as anemia, asthma, emphysema, diabetes and kidney disorders.