FLU FLU Flu, or influenza, is a common disease that affects people of all ages. Most people who get the flu are ill for a few days while others may be seriously ill and require hospital care. Each year, flu-related illnesses cause thousands of deaths. Most deaths directly caused by the flu are in very young or very old people. The flu is primarily spread between people during the winter and early spring.
Many flu viruses exist and are passed from an infected person to the nose or throat of others.
The risk is greater wherever large numbers of people gather in places like schools, nursing homes, shopping malls, and large companies. No specific treatment exists for the flu. Bed rest, proper nutrition, and drinking lots of fluids are important. Antibiotics do not provide relief. Anti-viral drugs, such as amantadine, may shorten flu episodes.