The American Lung Association of California works to keep people from getting influenza, or the flu as it is commonly called, by raising awareness about prevention. We encourage everyone to get a flu shot, especially those at high risk, including people with asthma or other lung diseases. Our online Flu Clinic Locator helps you find flu shot clinics in your neighborhood simply by entering your zip code.
For healthy children and adults, the flu is typically a moderately severe illness. But for people who have other health conditions, like lung disease, the flu can be deadly. Every year, about 35,000 Americans die from the flu or its complications.
The flu can damage the lining of the lung, though this is rarely permanent, and affects the entire body, causing fever, chills, weakness, loss of appetite, and severe head and body aches.
Influenza is a contagious disease caused by a virus – a tiny germ that can infect the body, including the lungs. It is spread from person to person when someone with the flu sneezes, coughs or talks. Flu germs enter the air and can be inhaled by someone nearby. The germs can also end up on surfaces like door knobs and get passed to other people when they touch the infected area and then touch their nose or mouth.
To prevent the spread of influenza, make sure you wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth with a tissue or the crook of your arm when you cough or sneeze, and stay home when you are sick with the flu.
