Seasonal Influenza: Flu Basics
Note: For the 2016-2017 season, CDC recommends use of the flu shot (inactivated influenza vaccine or IIV) and the recombinant influenza vaccine (RIV). The nasal spray flu vaccine (live attenuated influenza vaccine or LAIV) should not be used during 2016-2017. The 2016-2017 influenza vaccination recommendations are now available.
Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Serious outcomes of flu infection can result in hospitalization or death. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year.
The upcoming season's flu vaccine will protect against the influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the season. This includes an influenza A (H1N1) virus, an influenza A (H3N2) virus, and one or two influenza B viruses, depending on the flu vaccine.
- Key Facts About Seasonal Flu
A summary of key seasonal flu facts. - 2016-2017 Flu Season
Information about the 2016-2017 flu season. - Symptoms & Complications
Flu symptoms and complications. - People at High Risk from Flu
Some people are more likely to get flu complications that result in being hospitalized and occasionally result in death. - How Flu Spreads
How the virus spreads and how long people may be contagious. - Past Flu Seasons
Information about past flu seasons. -
Disease Burden of Influenza
Key resources on the burden of influenza. - Glossary of Influenza (Flu) Terms
A glossary of flu terminology and associated definitions used by CDC
Related Questions & Answers
- Page last reviewed: September 6, 2016
- Page last updated: October 31, 2016
- Content source:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD)
- Page maintained by: Office of the Associate Director for Communication, Digital Media Branch, Division of Public Affairs