Risk Factors and Complications of the Flu

Anyone can catch the flu. However, certain risk factors make it more likely that certain individuals will come down with the flu. These risk factors not only increase the likelihood that you will get the flu but may increase the likelihood of complications from the flu. Here are five risk factors that increase your chance of getting the flu.

Risk Factors for Catching the Flu

While the flu normally passes in about two weeks, it can still make you miserable, so you’ll want to do what you can to lower your risk. You may be more prone to catching the virus if you are in a high-risk group as defined by the following factors.

Skipping the Flu Shot

Those who do not or cannot get the flu shot are at greater risk for catching the flu. In addition, those who do not get the flu shot are more likely to spread it to others. The CDC recommends everyone over the age of 6 months receive an annual flu shot (with rare exceptions).

Age

Babies and children are more susceptible to all viruses as their immune systems haven’t fully matured. Seniors are also at greater risk for catching the flu, as the immune system weakens as you age.

Underlying Health Conditions

Underlying health conditions are a risk factor for catching the flu, due to a potentially weakened immune system. Those with the following underlying health conditions at increased risk of getting the flu.

• Asthma
• Chronic lung diseases, including COPD and cystic fibrosis
• Blood disorders such as sickle cell disease
• Endocrine disorders such as type 1 or type 2 diabetes
• Kidney and liver disorders
• Neurological conditions including a stroke, muscular dystrophy, or spinal cord injuries
• Pregnancy
• People who are extremely obese with a BMI of over 40
• Heart diseases such as coronary artery disease or congenital heart disease

Weakened Immune System

Individuals with a weakened immune system are at greater risk of catching the flu. This includes those who are on medications to suppress the immune system, due to having an autoimmune disorder, cancer, or other diseases and those who have received an organ transplant.

Wide Exposure to Others

Those in retirement communities, those who use public transportation, those who work with a lot of others, and children in school and daycare are at increased risk of catching the flu.

Complications of the Flu

Complications from the flu can range from moderate conditions, such as an ear infection or sinus infection to serious conditions that require hospitalization. Some flu-related complications can even lead to the risk of death. Other complications that you should be aware of if you are in a high-risk group include the following:

• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
• Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart)
• Myositis (inflammation of muscle tissue)
• Multiple organ failure including lungs and kidneys
• Sepsis due to the flu triggering an extreme inflammatory response in the body’s immune system
• Worsening of chronic conditions such as asthma or heart disease

Pneumonia

Another serious complication that can result from the flu is pneumonia. This happens when the virus spreads to the lower respiratory tract (your lungs). Pneumonia can cause extreme shortness of breath as the air sacs in the lungs fill up with fluid. This viral pneumonia can also lead to bacterial pneumonia if left untreated.

Signs of Flu Complications

It is important to know that you can develop life-threatening complications from the flu, even if you are not in a high-risk group. Knowing the signs of flu complications is essential in preserving your health. Some emergency warning signs that you should look out for include the following:

• Shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Strange pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Severe vomiting
• Flu symptoms that go away and then come back stronger

In children, you should watch out for the following signs of the flu as well:

• Extreme lethargy
• Bluish skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Extreme irritability
• A rash that accompanies a fever

If you have an infant that exhibits any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention right away.

• Lack of tears when crying
• Fewer wet diapers than normal
• Difficulty in breathing
• Inability to eat normally

When to See a Doctor

If you suspect that you or a member of your family has the flu, call your health care provider first. They may recommend that you be tested for COVID-19, or schedule a telemedicine appointment instead of having you come to their office. If you are diagnosed with the flu, you may be prescribed one of two antiviral medications that are FDA approved to treat the flu. Both Tamiflu and Xofluza should be taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.