Influenza can make people of any age ill.
Although most people are ill for only a few days, some have a much more serious illness and may need to be hospitalized. Thousands of people die each year from influenza-related illnesses. Most deaths caused by influenza are in elderly people. People who are at risk for getting a serious case of influenza or a complication should get the vaccine. Anyone who has close contact with people who are at risk for getting a serious case of influenza.