Those with chronic disease and underlying medical conditions are particularly susceptible to influenza and may suffer severe complications. The three major viruses that cause the disease have the ability to make major or minor changes in their structure. For this reason, individuals are susceptible to becoming infected each time the virus changes. This is why vaccinations are required on an annual basis for adults and children with chronic diseases. The conditions that most people refer to as the flu are not generally true influenza but one of the common respiratory viruses.
Influenza is more than a bad cold.
It is important to understand that it is not caused by bacteria and, as such, antibiotics are not indicated nor effective in treating the infection. Vaccination is the best way to prevent the disease and, contrary to public opinion, is safe. The decision of whether or not to vaccinate a child should be a mutual decision between the child's parents and pediatrician. Aspirin should not be used in patients with influenza because of the resulting increased risk for Reye's syndrome. Whether or not to use amantadine, an antiviral drug effective against the virus, is a decision that should be made by the child's physician.