It spreads when influenza viruses pass from an infected person to the nose or throat of others. It can lead to pneumonia and death. 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 infuenza-related illness.
Most death caused by influenza are in elderly people.
The vaccine contains killed viruses particles that are the same or similar to those thought to be most likely to come to the U.S. this year. All viruses in the vaccine are killed so you cannot get influenza from the vaccine. People who are at risk for getting a serious case of influenza or a complication should get the vaccine. Residents of long-term care facilities housing persons of any age with chronic medical conditions. Children and teenagers 6 months to 18 years of age on long-term aspirin treatment, who, if they catch influenza, could develop Reye's syndrome, which causes coma, liver damage, and death.