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Cold and Flu Prevention

Protecting your family from the germs that cause colds and the flu is easier than you might think. Learn tips for staying healthy during cold and flu season.

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Seasonal Influenza

Traditionally referred to as "the flu," seasonal influenza is a contagious respiratory disease caused by the influenza virus. Flu is spread person-to-person, often by droplets that are airborne from someone sneezing or coughing. The flu virus can exist in the environment for days -- particularly in the cold and in low humidity.

Symptoms Range in Severity

CDC estimates that between 5 and 20% of the U.S. population gets the flu. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe.

Most people recover without any complications. However, CDC also reports that 200,000 people are hospitalized for flu complications each year, and approximately 36,000 people die annually. Certain people are at higher risk for serious flu complications.

Seasonal Flu Vaccine

Getting vaccinated is the best protection against contracting the flu.

Read more in the Flu Vaccine Primer.