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Influenza, commonly called “the flu”, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus that affects the nose, throat and lungs. Influenza spreads from person to person when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Unlike the common cold, the flu can cause serious illness and can be life-threatening. Each year, influenza is estimated to be responsible for at least 9 million cases of disease, 140,000 hospitalizations, and 12,000 deaths.
In addition to getting your flu shot, simple everyday actions can help stop flu in its tracks - wash your hands, cover your cough, and stay home if you're sick. Find out what's happening now with flu in Vermont