The Flu: Causes
Transmission of the Flu
Influenza virus particles are spread from person to person within tiny droplets formed when coughing, sneezing, or talking.4-6
These infected droplets are then transmitted to another person who either:5,6
- Breathes in the airborne droplets
- Comes into close contact with an infected person
- Touches a contaminated surface and then touches their mouth, nose, or eyes
Anyone can get the flu, but it can be more serious in certain groups of people:1
- People aged 65 and over
- Pregnant women
- People with serious medical conditions such as diabetes, HIV, chronic respiratory, cardiac or cancer conditions
- Babies/young children
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The Contagious Period
When is a person contagious?
An infected person may be able to spread the flu before even becoming symptomatic.4
The highest point of contagiousness is within the first 3-4 days after the illness begins, but most adults may be considered infective 1 day prior to demonstrating symptoms.4
Healthy adults can be capable of spreading the virus for up to 7 days into their flu episode, but children and immunocompromised patients may be contagious for a longer period.4
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Reducing Risk
Reducing the risk of contracting the flu
Due to the constantly evolving nature of influenza viruses, the composition of the flu vaccine is updated every year as necessary.7
In addition to this, patients can be counselled to reduce their risk of infection and the risk of spreading it to others.
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