🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 5 (from laksa158)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa005.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html","crawl_time":1774760761,"first_indexed_time":1727820220,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"gov,cdc!www,\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html s443","src_root_hash":"17308952984333333205","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Signs and Symptoms of Flu | Influenza (Flu) | CDC","meta_descriptions":["Learn about identifying flu symptoms, how the diagnosis works, common complications, and more."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Influenza (also known as “flu”) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.\nIt can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.\nSymptoms\nFlu can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these signs and symptoms:\nfever* or feeling feverish\/chills\ncough\nsore throat\nrunny or stuffy nose\nmuscle or body aches\nheadaches\nfatigue (tiredness)\nsome people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.\n*It's important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.\nFlu complications\nMost people who get flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but some people will develop complications (such as pneumonia) as a result of flu, some of which can be life-threatening and result in death.\nSinus and ear infections are examples of moderate complications from flu, while pneumonia is a serious flu complication that can result from either flu virus infection alone or from co-infection of flu virus and bacteria. Other possible serious complications triggered by flu can include inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), brain (encephalitis) or muscle tissues (myositis, rhabdomyolysis), and multi-organ failure (for example, respiratory and kidney failure). Flu virus infection of the respiratory tract can trigger an extreme inflammatory response in the body and can lead to\nsepsis\n, the body's life-threatening response to infection. Flu also can make chronic medical problems worse. For example, people with\nasthma\nmay experience asthma attacks while they have flu, and people with chronic heart disease may experience a worsening of this condition triggered by flu.\nPeople at higher risk from flu\nAnyone can get sick with flu, even healthy people, and serious problems related to flu can happen to anyone at any age, but some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick. This includes people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women and children younger than 5 years, but especially those younger than 2 years old.\nCold versus flu\nSymptom onset\nGradual\nAbrupt\nFever\nRare\nCommon; lasts 3-4 days\nAches\nSlight\nCommon; often severe\nChills\nUncommon\nFairly common\nFatigue, weakness\nSometimes\nUsual\nSneezing\nCommon\nSometimes\nChest discomfort, cough\nMild to moderate; hacking cough\nCommon; can be severe\nStuffy nose\nCommon\nSometimes\nSore throat\nCommon\nSometimes\nHeadache\nRare\nCommon\nEmergency Warning Signs of Flu Complications\nPeople experiencing these warning signs should obtain medical care right away.\nIn children\nFast breathing or trouble breathing\nBluish lips or face\nRibs pulling in with each breath\nChest pain\nSevere muscle pain (child refuses to walk)\nDehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying)\nNot alert or interacting when awake\nSeizures\nFever above 104 degrees Fahrenheit that is not controlled by fever-reducing medicine\nIn children younger than 12 weeks, any fever\nFever or cough that improve but then return or worsen\nWorsening of chronic medical conditions\nIn adults\nDifficulty breathing or shortness of breath\nPersistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen\nPersistent dizziness, confusion, inability to arouse\nSeizures\nNot urinating\nSevere muscle pain\nSevere weakness or unsteadiness\nFever or cough that improve but then return or worsen\nWorsening of chronic medical conditions\nThese lists are not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptom that is severe or concerning.\nDiagnosis\nA number of tests are available to detect influenza viruses.\nThe Difference Between Flu and COVID-19\nFlu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses.\nThe Difference Between Cold and Flu\nFlu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses.\nAug. 26, 2024","attrs_markdown":"[Skip directly to site content](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#content) [Skip directly to search](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#cdc-search__input) [Skip directly to On This Page](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#first-on-this-page)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/TemplatePackage\/5.0\/img\/uswds\/us_flag_small.png) An official website of the United States government\n\n[Here's how you know](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#gov-notice)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/TemplatePackage\/5.0\/img\/uswds\/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n**Official websites use .gov**\n\nA **.gov** website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.\n\n![](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/TemplatePackage\/5.0\/img\/uswds\/icon-https.svg)\n\n**Secure .gov websites use HTTPS**\n\nA **lock** (  ) or **https:\/\/** means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.\n\n[![Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC twenty four seven. Saving Lives, Protecting People](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/TemplatePackage\/5.0\/img\/logo\/logo-notext.svg)](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/)\n\n[Influenza (Flu)](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/index.html)\n\nExplore This Topic\n\n[For Everyone](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/index.html)\n\n- [About](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/about\/index.html)\n- [Signs and Symptoms](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html)\n- [Causes and Spread](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/spread\/index.html)\n- [Flu Complications and People at Higher Risk](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/highrisk\/index.htm)\n- [Prevention](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevention\/index.html)\n- [Vaccine Basics](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/vaccines\/index.html)\n- [Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/testing\/index.html)\n- [Flu Treatment](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/treatment\/index.html)\n- [View all](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html#gen)\n\n[Health Care Providers](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/professionals\/index.htm)\n\n- [Clinical Guidance](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/clinical-guidance\/index.html)\n- [Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Influenza](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/clinical-signs\/index.html)\n- [Guidance for Influenza Vaccination](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/vax-summary\/index.html)\n- [Vaccine Product Information](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/vaccine-supply\/index.html)\n- [Clinical Testing and Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/testing-methods\/index.html)\n- [About Influenza Antiviral Medications](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/antivirals\/index.html)\n- [Infection Control Guidance](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/infection-control\/index.html)\n- [Laboratory Testing](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/info-collection\/index.html)\n- [View all](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html#hcp)\n\n[Public Health](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html#php)\n\n- [How CDC Classifies Flu Severity each Season in the United States](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/php\/surveillance\/index.html)\n- [Information for Laboratories](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/php\/laboratories\/index.html)\n- [Understanding Influenza Viruses](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/php\/viruses\/index.html)\n- [WHO Collaborating Center for Surveillance, Epidemiology and Control of Influenza](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/php\/who-collaboration\/index.html)\n- [Viral Genomic Sequencing Infrastructure](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/php\/genomic-sequencing-infrastructure\/index.html)\n- [View all](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html#php)\n\n**Related Topics:**\n\n[Avian Flu](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/bird-flu\/)  \\|  [Swine Flu](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/swine-flu\/)  \\|  [Flu in Animals](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu-in-animals\/)  \\|  [Flu Vaccines Work](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu-vaccines-work\/)  \\|  [Pandemic Flu](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/pandemic-flu\/)  \\|  [Flu Burden](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu-burden\/)\n\n[Home](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/index.html)\n\n[![Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC twenty four seven. Saving Lives, Protecting People](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/TemplatePackage\/5.0\/img\/logo\/logo-notext.svg)](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/)\n\n[*search*](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html)\n\n[Influenza (Flu)](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/index.html)\n\nMenu\n\nFor Everyone\n\n- [About](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/about\/index.html)\n- [Signs and Symptoms](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html)\n- [Causes and Spread](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/spread\/index.html)\n- [Flu Complications and People at Higher Risk](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/highrisk\/index.htm)\n- [Prevention](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevention\/index.html)\n- [Vaccine Basics](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/vaccines\/index.html)\n- [Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/testing\/index.html)\n- [Flu Treatment](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/treatment\/index.html)\n- [View All](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html#gen)     [Home](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/index.html)\n\nHealth Care Providers\n\n- [Clinical Guidance](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/clinical-guidance\/index.html)\n- [Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Influenza](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/clinical-signs\/index.html)\n- [Guidance for Influenza Vaccination](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/vax-summary\/index.html)\n- [Vaccine Product Information](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/vaccine-supply\/index.html)\n- [Clinical Testing and Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/testing-methods\/index.html)\n- [About Influenza Antiviral Medications](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/antivirals\/index.html)\n- [Infection Control Guidance](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/infection-control\/index.html)\n- [Laboratory Testing](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/info-collection\/index.html)\n- [View All](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html#hcp)     [Home](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/professionals\/index.htm)\n\nPublic Health\n\n- [How CDC Classifies Flu Severity each Season in the United States](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/php\/surveillance\/index.html)\n- [Information for Laboratories](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/php\/laboratories\/index.html)\n- [Understanding Influenza Viruses](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/php\/viruses\/index.html)\n- [WHO Collaborating Center for Surveillance, Epidemiology and Control of Influenza](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/php\/who-collaboration\/index.html)\n- [Viral Genomic Sequencing Infrastructure](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/php\/genomic-sequencing-infrastructure\/index.html)\n- [View All](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html#php)\n\nRelated Topics\n\n- [Avian Flu](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/bird-flu\/)\n- [Swine Flu](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/swine-flu\/)\n- [Flu in Animals](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu-in-animals\/)\n- [Flu Vaccines Work](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu-vaccines-work\/)\n- [Pandemic Flu](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/pandemic-flu\/)\n- [Flu Burden](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu-burden\/)\n\n[Influenza (Flu)](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/index.html)\n\n[About](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/about\/index.html)   [Signs and Symptoms](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html)   [Causes and Spread](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/spread\/index.html)   [Flu Complications and People at Higher Risk](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/highrisk\/index.htm)   [Prevention](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevention\/index.html)   [Vaccine Basics](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/vaccines\/index.html)   [Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/testing\/index.html)   [Flu Treatment](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/treatment\/index.html)   [View Menu](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html)\n\n![](data:image\/jpeg;base64,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)\n\n# Signs and Symptoms of Flu\nAug. 26, 2024\n\n[Español](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/es\/signs-symptoms\/signos-y-sintomas-de-la-influenza.html)\n\nFor Everyone\n\n## About\n- Influenza (also known as “flu”) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.\n- It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.\n\n![Flu can cause mild to severe illness. Learn the symptoms of flu.](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/images\/homepage\/symptoms2.png)\n\n## Symptoms\nFlu can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these signs and symptoms:\n\n- fever\\* or feeling feverish\/chills\n- cough\n- sore throat\n- runny or stuffy nose\n- muscle or body aches\n- headaches\n- fatigue (tiredness)\n- some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.\n\n\\*It's important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.\n\n**Keep Reading** [Signs and Symptoms of Flu](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html)\n\n## Flu complications\nMost people who get flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but some people will develop complications (such as pneumonia) as a result of flu, some of which can be life-threatening and result in death.\n\nSinus and ear infections are examples of moderate complications from flu, while pneumonia is a serious flu complication that can result from either flu virus infection alone or from co-infection of flu virus and bacteria. Other possible serious complications triggered by flu can include inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), brain (encephalitis) or muscle tissues (myositis, rhabdomyolysis), and multi-organ failure (for example, respiratory and kidney failure). Flu virus infection of the respiratory tract can trigger an extreme inflammatory response in the body and can lead to [sepsis](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/sepsis\/index.html), the body's life-threatening response to infection. Flu also can make chronic medical problems worse. For example, people with [asthma](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/highrisk\/asthma.htm) may experience asthma attacks while they have flu, and people with chronic heart disease may experience a worsening of this condition triggered by flu.\n\n**Keep Reading** [People at Increased Risk for Flu Complications](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/highrisk\/index.htm)\n\n## People at higher risk from flu\nAnyone can get sick with flu, even healthy people, and serious problems related to flu can happen to anyone at any age, but some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick. This includes people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women and children younger than 5 years, but especially those younger than 2 years old.\n\n**Keep Reading** [People at Increased Risk for Flu Complications](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/highrisk\/index.htm)\n\n### Cold versus flu\n**Signs and Symptoms**\n\n**Cold**\n\n**Influenza (Flu)**\n\n**Symptom onset**\n\nGradual\n\nAbrupt\n\n**Fever**\n\nRare\n\nCommon; lasts 3-4 days\n\n**Aches**\n\nSlight\n\nCommon; often severe\n\n**Chills**\n\nUncommon\n\nFairly common\n\n**Fatigue, weakness**\n\nSometimes\n\nUsual\n\n**Sneezing**\n\nCommon\n\nSometimes\n\n**Chest discomfort, cough**\n\nMild to moderate; hacking cough\n\nCommon; can be severe\n\n**Stuffy nose**\n\nCommon\n\nSometimes\n\n**Sore throat**\n\nCommon\n\nSometimes\n\n**Headache**\n\nRare\n\nCommon\n\n## Emergency Warning Signs of Flu Complications\nPeople experiencing these warning signs should obtain medical care right away.\n\n**In children**\n\n- Fast breathing or trouble breathing\n- Bluish lips or face\n- Ribs pulling in with each breath\n- Chest pain\n- Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk)\n- Dehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying)\n- Not alert or interacting when awake\n- Seizures\n- Fever above 104 degrees Fahrenheit that is not controlled by fever-reducing medicine\n- In children younger than 12 weeks, any fever\n- Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen\n- Worsening of chronic medical conditions\n\n**In adults**\n\n- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath\n- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen\n- Persistent dizziness, confusion, inability to arouse\n- Seizures\n- Not urinating\n- Severe muscle pain\n- Severe weakness or unsteadiness\n- Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen\n- Worsening of chronic medical conditions\n\n**These lists are not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptom that is severe or concerning.**\n\n### Diagnosis\nA number of tests are available to detect influenza viruses.\n\n[Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/testing\/index.html)\n\n### The Difference Between Flu and COVID-19\nFlu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses.\n\n[Similarities and Differences between Flu and COVID-19](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/about\/flu-vs-covid19.html)\n\n### The Difference Between Cold and Flu\nFlu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses.\n\n[Cold Versus Flu](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/about\/coldflu.html)\n\n## On This Page\n- [Symptoms](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#cdc_symptoms_symptoms-symptoms \"Symptoms\")\n- [Flu complications](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#cdc_symptoms_section_2-flu-complications \"Flu complications\")\n- [People at higher risk from flu](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#cdc_symptoms_section_3-people-at-higher-risk-from-flu \"People at higher risk from flu\")\n- [Emergency Warning Signs of Flu Complications](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#anchor_1722534792989 \"Emergency Warning Signs of Flu Complications\")\n\n## Related Pages\n- [Seasonal Flu and Staph Infection](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/flustaph.html)\n- [About](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/about\/index.html)\n- [Causes and Spread](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/spread\/index.html)\n- [Flu Complications and People at Higher Risk](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/highrisk\/index.htm)\n- [Prevention](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevention\/index.html)\n\n[View All Influenza (Flu)](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html#gen)\n\n[Seasonal Flu and Staph Infection](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/flustaph.html)\n\nAug. 26, 2024\n\n[Sources](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#content-sources) [Print](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#print) [Share](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#share)\n\n[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fflu%2Fsigns-symptoms%2Findex.html \"Share to Facebook\")   [LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/shareArticle?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fflu%2Fsigns-symptoms%2Findex.html&title=Signs%20and%20Symptoms%20of%20Flu \"Share to LinkedIn\")   [Twitter](http:\/\/twitter.com\/share?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fflu%2Fsigns-symptoms%2Findex.html&text=Signs%20and%20Symptoms%20of%20Flu \"Share to Twitter\")   [Syndicate](https:\/\/tools.cdc.gov\/medialibrary\/index.aspx#\/sharecontent \"Embed this Page\")\n\nContent Source:\n\n[National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD)](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/ncird\/index.html)\n\n## Related Pages\n- [Seasonal Flu and Staph Infection](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/flustaph.html)\n- [About](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/about\/index.html)\n- [Causes and Spread](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/spread\/index.html)\n- [Flu Complications and People at Higher Risk](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/highrisk\/index.htm)\n- [Prevention](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevention\/index.html)\n\n[View All Influenza (Flu)](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html#gen)\n\nBack to Top\n\n## [Influenza (Flu)](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/index.html)\nInfluenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs.\n\n[View All](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html)\n\n### [For Everyone](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/index.html#gen)\n- [About](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/about\/index.html)\n- [Signs and Symptoms](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html)\n- [Causes and Spread](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/spread\/index.html)\n- [Flu Complications and People at Higher Risk](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/highrisk\/index.htm)\n- [Prevention](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevention\/index.html)\n- [Vaccine Basics](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/vaccines\/index.html)\n- [Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/testing\/index.html)\n- [Flu Treatment](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/treatment\/index.html)\n- [View all](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html#gen)\n\n### [Health Care Providers](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/professionals\/index.htm#hcp)\n- [Clinical Guidance](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/clinical-guidance\/index.html)\n- [Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Influenza](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/clinical-signs\/index.html)\n- [Guidance for Influenza Vaccination](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/hcp\/vax-summary\/index.html)\n- [View All](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html#hcp)\n\n### [Public Health](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html#php)\n- [How CDC Classifies Flu Severity each Season in the United States](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/php\/surveillance\/index.html)\n- [Information for Laboratories](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/php\/laboratories\/index.html)\n- [Understanding Influenza Viruses](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/php\/viruses\/index.html)\n- [View All](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/site.html#php)\n\n[Sign up for Email Updates](https:\/\/tools.cdc.gov\/campaignproxyservice\/subscriptions.aspx?topic_id=USCDC_7_3)\n\n[Contact Us](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#contactUs)\n\n[Contact Us](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/cdc-info\/index.html)\n\n- [Call 800-232-4636](tel:800-232-4636)\n- [Contact CDC](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/cdc-info\/index.html)\n\n[About CDC](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#aboutCDC)\n\n[About CDC](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/about\/)\n\n- [Pressroom](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/media\/)\n- [Organization](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/about\/organization\/)\n- [Budget & Funding](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/budget\/)\n- [Careers & 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Assistance](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html)\n\n- [Español](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Spanish)\n- [繁體中文](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Chinese)\n- [Tiếng Việt](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Vietnamese)\n- [한국어](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Korean)\n\n- [Tagalog](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Tagalog)\n- [Русский](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Russian)\n- [العربية](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Arabic)\n- [Kreyòl Ayisyen](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Haitian)\n\n- [Français](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#French)\n- [Polski](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Polish)\n- [Português](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Portuguese)\n- [Italiano](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Italian)\n\n- [Deutsch](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#German)\n- [日本語](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Japanese)\n- [فارسی](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Farsi)\n- [English](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#English)\n\n[Archive](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#archive)\n\n- [CDC Archive](https:\/\/archive.cdc.gov\/)\n- [Public Health Publications](https:\/\/stacks.cdc.gov\/)\n\n[Contact Us](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#mobile-footer-contactUs)\n\n[Contact Us](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/cdc-info\/index.html)\n\n- [Call 800-232-4636](tel:800-232-4636)\n- [Contact CDC](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/cdc-info\/index.html)\n\n[About CDC](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#mobile-footer-aboutCDC)\n\n- [Pressroom](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/media\/)\n- [Organization](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/about\/organization\/)\n- [Budget & Funding](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/budget\/)\n- [Careers & Jobs](https:\/\/jobs.cdc.gov\/index.html)\n- [About CDC](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/about\/)\n\n[Policies](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#mobile-footer-policies)\n\n- [Accessibility](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/accessibility.html)\n- [External Links](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/Other\/disclaimer.html#exit-notification)\n- [Privacy](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/privacy.html)\n- [Web Policies](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/Other\/policies.html)\n\n- [FOIA](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/foia\/)\n- [OIG](https:\/\/oig.hhs.gov\/)\n- [No Fear Act](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/oeeowe\/no-fear-act\/)\n- [Nondiscrimination](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/nondiscrimination.html)\n- [Vulnerability Disclosure Policy](https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/vulnerability-disclosure-policy\/index.html)\n\n[Languages](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#mobile-footer-languages)\n\nLanguages\n\n- [Español](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/spanish\/)\n\nLanguage Assistance\n\n- [Español](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Spanish)\n- [繁體中文](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Chinese)\n- [Tiếng Việt](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Vietnamese)\n- [한국어](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Korean)\n- [Tagalog](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Tagalog)\n- [Русский](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Russian)\n- [العربية](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Arabic)\n- [Kreyòl Ayisyen](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Haitian)\n- [Français](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#French)\n- [Polski](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Polish)\n- [Português](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Portuguese)\n- [Italiano](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Italian)\n- [Deutsch](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#German)\n- [日本語](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Japanese)\n- [فارسی](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#Farsi)\n- [English](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/other\/language-assistance.html#English)\n\n[Archive](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/signs-symptoms\/index.html#mobile-footer-archive)\n\n- [CDC Archive](https:\/\/archive.cdc.gov\/)\n- [Public Health Publications](https:\/\/stacks.cdc.gov\/)\n\n[![Centers for Disease Control and Prevention](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/TemplatePackage\/5.0\/img\/logo\/cdc-logo-tag-right.svg)](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/)\n\n[HHS.gov](https:\/\/hhs.gov\/) [USA.gov](https:\/\/usa.gov\/)","attrs_readable_markdown":"- Influenza (also known as “flu”) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.\n- It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.\n\n![Flu can cause mild to severe illness. Learn the symptoms of flu.](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/images\/homepage\/symptoms2.png)\n\n## Symptoms\nFlu can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these signs and symptoms:\n\n- fever\\* or feeling feverish\/chills\n- cough\n- sore throat\n- runny or stuffy nose\n- muscle or body aches\n- headaches\n- fatigue (tiredness)\n- some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.\n\n\\*It's important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.\n\n## Flu complications\nMost people who get flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but some people will develop complications (such as pneumonia) as a result of flu, some of which can be life-threatening and result in death.\n\nSinus and ear infections are examples of moderate complications from flu, while pneumonia is a serious flu complication that can result from either flu virus infection alone or from co-infection of flu virus and bacteria. Other possible serious complications triggered by flu can include inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), brain (encephalitis) or muscle tissues (myositis, rhabdomyolysis), and multi-organ failure (for example, respiratory and kidney failure). Flu virus infection of the respiratory tract can trigger an extreme inflammatory response in the body and can lead to [sepsis](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/sepsis\/index.html), the body's life-threatening response to infection. Flu also can make chronic medical problems worse. For example, people with [asthma](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/highrisk\/asthma.htm) may experience asthma attacks while they have flu, and people with chronic heart disease may experience a worsening of this condition triggered by flu.\n\n## People at higher risk from flu\nAnyone can get sick with flu, even healthy people, and serious problems related to flu can happen to anyone at any age, but some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick. This includes people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women and children younger than 5 years, but especially those younger than 2 years old.\n\n### Cold versus flu\n**Symptom onset**\n\nGradual\n\nAbrupt\n\n**Fever**\n\nRare\n\nCommon; lasts 3-4 days\n\n**Aches**\n\nSlight\n\nCommon; often severe\n\n**Chills**\n\nUncommon\n\nFairly common\n\n**Fatigue, weakness**\n\nSometimes\n\nUsual\n\n**Sneezing**\n\nCommon\n\nSometimes\n\n**Chest discomfort, cough**\n\nMild to moderate; hacking cough\n\nCommon; can be severe\n\n**Stuffy nose**\n\nCommon\n\nSometimes\n\n**Sore throat**\n\nCommon\n\nSometimes\n\n**Headache**\n\nRare\n\nCommon\n\n## Emergency Warning Signs of Flu Complications\nPeople experiencing these warning signs should obtain medical care right away.\n\n**In children**\n\n- Fast breathing or trouble breathing\n- Bluish lips or face\n- Ribs pulling in with each breath\n- Chest pain\n- Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk)\n- Dehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying)\n- Not alert or interacting when awake\n- Seizures\n- Fever above 104 degrees Fahrenheit that is not controlled by fever-reducing medicine\n- In children younger than 12 weeks, any fever\n- Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen\n- Worsening of chronic medical conditions\n\n**In adults**\n\n- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath\n- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen\n- Persistent dizziness, confusion, inability to arouse\n- Seizures\n- Not urinating\n- Severe muscle pain\n- Severe weakness or unsteadiness\n- Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen\n- Worsening of chronic medical conditions\n\n**These lists are not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptom that is severe or concerning.**\n\n### Diagnosis\nA number of tests are available to detect influenza viruses.\n\n### The Difference Between Flu and COVID-19\nFlu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses.\n\n### The Difference Between Cold and Flu\nFlu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses.\n\nAug. 26, 2024","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Influenza (also known as “flu”) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Symptoms Flu can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these signs and symptoms: fever* or feeling feverish/chills cough sore throat runny or stuffy nose muscle or body aches headaches fatigue (tiredness) some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults. *It's important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever. Flu complications Most people who get flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but some people will develop complications (such as pneumonia) as a result of flu, some of which can be life-threatening and result in death. Sinus and ear infections are examples of moderate complications from flu, while pneumonia is a serious flu complication that can result from either flu virus infection alone or from co-infection of flu virus and bacteria. Other possible serious complications triggered by flu can include inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), brain (encephalitis) or muscle tissues (myositis, rhabdomyolysis), and multi-organ failure (for example, respiratory and kidney failure). Flu virus infection of the respiratory tract can trigger an extreme inflammatory response in the body and can lead to sepsis , the body's life-threatening response to infection. Flu also can make chronic medical problems worse. For example, people with asthma may experience asthma attacks while they have flu, and people with chronic heart disease may experience a worsening of this condition triggered by flu. People at higher risk from flu Anyone can get sick with flu, even healthy people, and serious problems related to flu can happen to anyone at any age, but some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick. This includes people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women and children younger than 5 years, but especially those younger than 2 years old. Cold versus flu Symptom onset Gradual Abrupt Fever Rare Common; lasts 3-4 days Aches Slight Common; often severe Chills Uncommon Fairly common Fatigue, weakness Sometimes Usual Sneezing Common Sometimes Chest discomfort, cough Mild to moderate; hacking cough Common; can be severe Stuffy nose Common Sometimes Sore throat Common Sometimes Headache Rare Common Emergency Warning Signs of Flu Complications People experiencing these warning signs should obtain medical care right away. In children Fast breathing or trouble breathing Bluish lips or face Ribs pulling in with each breath Chest pain Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk) Dehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying) Not alert or interacting when awake Seizures Fever above 104 degrees Fahrenheit that is not controlled by fever-reducing medicine In children younger than 12 weeks, any fever Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen Worsening of chronic medical conditions In adults Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen Persistent dizziness, confusion, inability to arouse Seizures Not urinating Severe muscle pain Severe weakness or unsteadiness Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen Worsening of chronic medical conditions These lists are not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptom that is severe or concerning. Diagnosis A number of tests are available to detect influenza viruses. The Difference Between Flu and COVID-19 Flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. The Difference Between Cold and Flu Flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses. Aug. 26, 2024
Markdown	[Skip directly to site content](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html#content) [Skip directly to search](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html#cdc-search__input) [Skip directly to On This Page](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html#first-on-this-page) ![](https://www.cdc.gov/TemplatePackage/5.0/img/uswds/us_flag_small.png) An official website of the United States government [Here's how you know](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html#gov-notice) ![](https://www.cdc.gov/TemplatePackage/5.0/img/uswds/icon-dot-gov.svg) Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. ![](https://www.cdc.gov/TemplatePackage/5.0/img/uswds/icon-https.svg) Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( ) or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. [![Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC twenty four seven. 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) # Signs and Symptoms of Flu Aug. 26, 2024 [Español](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/es/signs-symptoms/signos-y-sintomas-de-la-influenza.html) For Everyone ## About - Influenza (also known as “flu”) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. - It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. ![Flu can cause mild to severe illness. Learn the symptoms of flu.](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/images/homepage/symptoms2.png) ## Symptoms Flu can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these signs and symptoms: - fever\* or feeling feverish/chills - cough - sore throat - runny or stuffy nose - muscle or body aches - headaches - fatigue (tiredness) - some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults. \It's important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever. Keep Reading* [Signs and Symptoms of Flu](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html) ## Flu complications Most people who get flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but some people will develop complications (such as pneumonia) as a result of flu, some of which can be life-threatening and result in death. Sinus and ear infections are examples of moderate complications from flu, while pneumonia is a serious flu complication that can result from either flu virus infection alone or from co-infection of flu virus and bacteria. Other possible serious complications triggered by flu can include inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), brain (encephalitis) or muscle tissues (myositis, rhabdomyolysis), and multi-organ failure (for example, respiratory and kidney failure). Flu virus infection of the respiratory tract can trigger an extreme inflammatory response in the body and can lead to [sepsis](https://www.cdc.gov/sepsis/index.html), the body's life-threatening response to infection. Flu also can make chronic medical problems worse. For example, people with [asthma](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/asthma.htm) may experience asthma attacks while they have flu, and people with chronic heart disease may experience a worsening of this condition triggered by flu. Keep Reading [People at Increased Risk for Flu Complications](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/index.htm) ## People at higher risk from flu Anyone can get sick with flu, even healthy people, and serious problems related to flu can happen to anyone at any age, but some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick. This includes people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women and children younger than 5 years, but especially those younger than 2 years old. Keep Reading [People at Increased Risk for Flu Complications](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/index.htm) ### Cold versus flu Signs and Symptoms Cold Influenza (Flu) Symptom onset Gradual Abrupt Fever Rare Common; lasts 3-4 days Aches Slight Common; often severe Chills Uncommon Fairly common Fatigue, weakness Sometimes Usual Sneezing Common Sometimes Chest discomfort, cough Mild to moderate; hacking cough Common; can be severe Stuffy nose Common Sometimes Sore throat Common Sometimes Headache Rare Common ## Emergency Warning Signs of Flu Complications People experiencing these warning signs should obtain medical care right away. In children - Fast breathing or trouble breathing - Bluish lips or face - Ribs pulling in with each breath - Chest pain - Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk) - Dehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying) - Not alert or interacting when awake - Seizures - Fever above 104 degrees Fahrenheit that is not controlled by fever-reducing medicine - In children younger than 12 weeks, any fever - Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen - Worsening of chronic medical conditions In adults - Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath - Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen - Persistent dizziness, confusion, inability to arouse - Seizures - Not urinating - Severe muscle pain - Severe weakness or unsteadiness - Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen - Worsening of chronic medical conditions These lists are not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptom that is severe or concerning. ### Diagnosis A number of tests are available to detect influenza viruses. [Diagnosis](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/testing/index.html) ### The Difference Between Flu and COVID-19 Flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. [Similarities and Differences between Flu and COVID-19](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/flu-vs-covid19.html) ### The Difference Between Cold and Flu Flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses. [Cold Versus Flu](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/coldflu.html) ## On This Page - [Symptoms](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html#cdc_symptoms_symptoms-symptoms "Symptoms") - [Flu complications](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html#cdc_symptoms_section_2-flu-complications "Flu complications") - [People at higher risk from flu](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html#cdc_symptoms_section_3-people-at-higher-risk-from-flu "People at higher risk from flu") - [Emergency Warning Signs of Flu Complications](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html#anchor_1722534792989 "Emergency Warning Signs of Flu Complications") ## Related Pages - [Seasonal Flu and Staph Infection](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/flustaph.html) - [About](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/index.html) - [Causes and Spread](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/spread/index.html) - [Flu Complications and People at Higher Risk](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/index.htm) - [Prevention](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevention/index.html) [View All Influenza (Flu)](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/site.html#gen) [Seasonal Flu and Staph Infection](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/flustaph.html) Aug. 26, 2024 [Sources](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html#content-sources) [Print](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html#print) [Share](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html#share) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fflu%2Fsigns-symptoms%2Findex.html "Share to Facebook") [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fflu%2Fsigns-symptoms%2Findex.html&title=Signs%20and%20Symptoms%20of%20Flu "Share to LinkedIn") [Twitter](http://twitter.com/share?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fflu%2Fsigns-symptoms%2Findex.html&text=Signs%20and%20Symptoms%20of%20Flu "Share to Twitter") [Syndicate](https://tools.cdc.gov/medialibrary/index.aspx#/sharecontent "Embed this Page") Content Source: [National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD)](https://www.cdc.gov/ncird/index.html) ## Related Pages - [Seasonal Flu and Staph Infection](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/flustaph.html) - [About](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/index.html) - [Causes and Spread](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/spread/index.html) - [Flu Complications and People at Higher Risk](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/index.htm) - [Prevention](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevention/index.html) [View All Influenza (Flu)](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/site.html#gen) Back to Top ## [Influenza (Flu)](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.html) Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. 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Readable Markdown	- Influenza (also known as “flu”) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. - It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. ![Flu can cause mild to severe illness. Learn the symptoms of flu.](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/images/homepage/symptoms2.png) ## Symptoms Flu can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these signs and symptoms: - fever\* or feeling feverish/chills - cough - sore throat - runny or stuffy nose - muscle or body aches - headaches - fatigue (tiredness) - some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults. \It's important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever. ## Flu complications Most people who get flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but some people will develop complications (such as pneumonia) as a result of flu, some of which can be life-threatening and result in death. Sinus and ear infections are examples of moderate complications from flu, while pneumonia is a serious flu complication that can result from either flu virus infection alone or from co-infection of flu virus and bacteria. Other possible serious complications triggered by flu can include inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), brain (encephalitis) or muscle tissues (myositis, rhabdomyolysis), and multi-organ failure (for example, respiratory and kidney failure). Flu virus infection of the respiratory tract can trigger an extreme inflammatory response in the body and can lead to [sepsis](https://www.cdc.gov/sepsis/index.html), the body's life-threatening response to infection. Flu also can make chronic medical problems worse. For example, people with [asthma](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/asthma.htm) may experience asthma attacks while they have flu, and people with chronic heart disease may experience a worsening of this condition triggered by flu. ## People at higher risk from flu Anyone can get sick with flu, even healthy people, and serious problems related to flu can happen to anyone at any age, but some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick. This includes people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women and children younger than 5 years, but especially those younger than 2 years old. ### Cold versus flu Symptom onset* Gradual Abrupt Fever Rare Common; lasts 3-4 days Aches Slight Common; often severe Chills Uncommon Fairly common Fatigue, weakness Sometimes Usual Sneezing Common Sometimes Chest discomfort, cough Mild to moderate; hacking cough Common; can be severe Stuffy nose Common Sometimes Sore throat Common Sometimes Headache Rare Common ## Emergency Warning Signs of Flu Complications People experiencing these warning signs should obtain medical care right away. In children - Fast breathing or trouble breathing - Bluish lips or face - Ribs pulling in with each breath - Chest pain - Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk) - Dehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying) - Not alert or interacting when awake - Seizures - Fever above 104 degrees Fahrenheit that is not controlled by fever-reducing medicine - In children younger than 12 weeks, any fever - Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen - Worsening of chronic medical conditions In adults - Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath - Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen - Persistent dizziness, confusion, inability to arouse - Seizures - Not urinating - Severe muscle pain - Severe weakness or unsteadiness - Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen - Worsening of chronic medical conditions These lists are not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptom that is severe or concerning. ### Diagnosis A number of tests are available to detect influenza viruses. ### The Difference Between Flu and COVID-19 Flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. ### The Difference Between Cold and Flu Flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses. Aug. 26, 2024
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