HEALTH TOPICS 
Influenza: How to prevent and treat a serious infection
It happens every year. The days grow shorter, the temperature drops — and the flu strikes. Influenza is so common that it's easy to dismiss this seasonal affliction as "just a virus" or "just the flu." It's true that the flu is caused by a virus and that most people recover without any therapy other than rest. But it's also true that thousands of Americans die from the flu each year, and millions are sick enough to miss work or school. Influenza is a serious infection — but it can be prevented and treated.
Special features
HealthMap Flu Vaccine Finder
HealthMap Vaccine Finder is a free service that allows users to search for flu vaccines based on their location. Powered by Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital.
How an influenza virus infects a cell
See how a flu virus enters a healthy cell, replicates, and exits with this narrated, step-through animation.
Learn more about the flu virus and how to protect yourself
- 10 flu myths
- How long does the flu last?
- How to boost your immune system
- Frequently asked questions about colds and the flu
- What's new with the flu shot?
- Ask the doctor: High-dose flu vaccine: Is it better?
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.