Influenza - What Increases Your Risk

What Increases Your Risk

Anyone exposed to an influenza (flu) virus can become infected. These viruses are contagious and spread easily among people in groups, such as in nursing homes, hospitals, shelters, schools, and day cares. Working, visiting, or living in any of these areas increases your risk of getting the flu.

The risk of developing severe symptoms and complications is higher for:

• Children younger than 4 years of age.
• Adults age 65 and older. About 90% of the deaths caused by flu occur in this age group.²
• Women who will be in their second or third trimester of pregnancy during the flu season.²
• People who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), other lung diseases, or heart failure.
• People who have a medical condition (such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome [AIDS]) or who are using a medication that impairs the immune system.