Most people are back on their feet within a week. For people who are not healthy or well to begin with, influenza can be very severe and even fatal. The symptoms described above have a greater impact on these persons. In addition, complications can occur. Most of these complications are bacterial infections because the body can be so weakened by influenza that its defenses against bacteria are low.
Bacterial pneumonia is the most common serious complication of influenza.
In addition the sinuses and inner ears may become inflamed and painful. Anyone can get influenza, especially when it is widespread in the community. In 1996 alone, over 95 million cases of the flu were reported. People who are not healthy or well to begin with are particularly susceptible to the complications that can follow. For anyone at high risk, influenza is a very serious illness.