Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious viral infection often affecting the nose, throat and lungs. It can sometimes involve multiple body systems and lead to severe illness, especially in young children and the elderly.
Certain children, such as those who are very young, have asthma, underlying heart or neurological conditions, or weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for complications like pneumonia, brain or heart inflammation, exacerbation of chronic health issues and severe systemic effects, potentially leading to serious illness or death.