Definition & Meaning of "influenza"in English

What is "influenza"?

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It typically presents with symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea. Influenza spreads when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes, releasing saliva or mucus, as well as by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face. Most people recover from the flu without complications, but it can lead to severe illness or death, particularly in high-risk groups such as young children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying health conditions. Vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza and its potentially serious complications.