Influenza

Seasonal influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an infection in the airways caused by the influenza virus. It’s called 'seasonal' influenza because the virus circulates annually in the winter season in Canada. In addition to seasonal influenza, you have probably heard about avian influenza and pandemic influenza.

Seasonal influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It is easily caught and easily spread. Influenza typically starts with a headache, chills and cough, followed rapidly by fever, loss of appetite, muscle aches and fatigue, runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes and throat irritation. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may also occur, especially in children. Influenza also lowers the body's ability to fight off other infections which can lead to pneumonia, bronchitis or other complications. In addition, influenza can worsen a current medical condition such as diabetes, lung disease, heart disease, kidney disease or cancer. Between 4000 and 8000 Canadians can die of influenza and its complications annually, depending on the severity of the season.

For more information on influenza visit the following links:

Public Health Agency of Canada- Influenza

Public Health Agency of Canada- "The Flu Shot"

Public Health Agency of Canada- The Role of Vaccines and Antivirals in Controlling and
Preventing Influenza

Canadian Coalition for Immunization Awareness and Promotion

Caring for Kids

World Health Organization