Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an infectious disease that is caused by the influenza virus. It’s highly contagious meaning it can spread easily from person to person. It can rapidly transmit in crowded areas including schools and nursing homes.

Flu is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system i.e the nose, throat and the lungs. It usually starts from a cough or a sneeze and tiny droplets come out the mouth and nose which can be breathed in by people or it can land on surfaces that are touched.

Even people with mild or no symptoms can infect others.

Symptoms can develop quite quickly, you could experience the following: