How many people die of flu every year?

THE influenza virus affects thousands of people each year.

The impact of the flu varies from person to person each year all throughout the world.

How many people die of the flu each year in the United States?

The seasonal flu (influenza) is a major killer globally and contributes to a rise in mortality rates in the colder, winter months.

The Center for Disease Control estimates that there is an average of 36,000 deaths per year as a result of the flu in the United States.

The highest amount of people ever killed during a single flu season in the US was 61,000.

Each year, there are four different types of flu viruses that people face.

How many people die of the flu each year in the United Kingdom?

In the United Kingdom, the average number of deaths from the flu is smaller than in the US.

In the UK, the average deaths per year from the flu ranges from 10,000-25,000.

In a study done regarding yearly flu deaths in the UK, it found that out of the 5.5 million consultations a year related to acute respiratory illness, an estimated 600,000 are flu related.

What is the flu?

The flu is a viral infection that attacks the lungs, nose, and throat.

The most common symptoms of the flu include:

  • a fever
  • body aches
  • feeling tired or exhausted
  • a dry cough
  • a sore throat
  • a headache
  • difficulty sleeping
  • loss of appetite
  • diarrhea or tummy pain
  • feeling sick or being sick

In order to prevent the flu or lessen symptoms, it is recommended to get the flu shot prior to flu season starting.

In 2020, during the Coronavirus pandemic, many people had flu like symptoms that ended up being COVID-19.

When is flu season?

While the influenza virus can circulate year round, the highest peaks occur between December and February.

The virus is known to live longer during the winter months because of the lack of humidity outside.

Since the winter months are when people spend the most time inside, by the virus living longer, it causes more infections versus the spring and summer time when the air is humid and the virus can't live as long.

When is the best time to get the flu vaccine?

Getting the flu vaccine every year provides multiple benefits, including, reducing illness and preventing flu-related hospitalization.

The CDC recommends that everyone six months and older should get the vaccine in the early fall, before the virus starts to spread.

The vaccine takes two weeks to develop antibodies that will protect against the virus.

Getting the vaccine in July or August is associated with reduced protection according to the CDC.

There are two ways a person can get the flu vaccine, including a physical shot or a nasal spray.

How do I stay healthy during flu season?

According to the CDC, there are many healthy habits that help prevent the flu.

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Those habits include:

  • Avoiding close contact with people
  • Staying home when sick
  • Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
  • Clean hands often
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Stay physically active
  • Drink fluids
  • Manage stress
  • Eating a healthy diet

The CDC also recommends frequently cleaning surfaces, monitor your health for any signs of illness, and get vaccinated.

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