Flu

Flu, short for influenza, refers to a contagious viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs. It is caused by influenza viruses, which are classified into several types, primarily influenza A and B. The flu is characterized by symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes gastrointestinal issues. It spreads through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes or by surfaces contaminated with the virus. Seasonal outbreaks typically occur in winter months, and vaccination is a common preventive measure to reduce the risk of infection and mitigate the severity of the illness.