Answer:
The flu is caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. These viruses spread when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk, sending droplets with the virus into the air and potentially into the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. You can also get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching your own mouth, eyes or nose.
Flu Risk Factors:
Influenza is a very serious illness for anyone at high risk. Certain diseases that place people at high risk include:
- chronic lung diseases such as asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis, or cystic fibrosis
- heart disease
- chronic kidney disease
- diabetes or other chronic metabolic disorder
- morbid obesity
- severe anemia (including sickle cell anemia)
- diseases (HIV, AIDS) or treatments (steroids, chemotherapy) that suppress immunity
- liver disorders
- children and adolescents who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy
