Influenza
1 Active OutbreakInfluenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and can lead to hospitalization or death, particularly in high-risk populations.
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What is Influenza?
Influenza is a seasonal respiratory virus that affects millions of people worldwide each year. Unlike the common cold, flu comes on suddenly and can cause serious complications like pneumonia, especially in children, elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions. Annual flu vaccination is the best prevention method.
Symptoms
- Sudden onset of high fever (100-104°F)
- Dry cough
- Severe body aches and muscle pain
- Extreme fatigue and weakness
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sometimes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (more common in children)
Transmission
Flu spreads through respiratory droplets when infected people cough, sneeze, or talk. It can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. The virus can survive on surfaces for 24-48 hours.
Contagious Period: 1 day before symptoms appear through 5-7 days after becoming sick (children and immunocompromised may be contagious longer)
Prevention
- Annual flu vaccination (recommended for everyone 6 months and older)
- Frequent handwashing with soap and water for 20 seconds
- Avoid touching face (eyes, nose, mouth)
- Stay home when sick (at least 24 hours after fever resolves)
- Cover coughs and sneezes with tissue or elbow
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
- Avoid close contact with sick people
- Consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings during flu season
Active Outbreaks & Recent Cases
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Data sources: BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies
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Expert Resources & References
Trusted information from leading health organizations
CDC
Official guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
View CDC Resources →WHO
Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization
View WHO Resources →Medically Reviewed Content
Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-03
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Influenza answered by our epidemiology team
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