Regional Flu Activity Levels
Last updated: 2025-01-15
Activity Level Scale
Flu Activity by Region
North America
ModerateEurope
HighAsia
LowSouth America
MinimalAfrica
LowOceania
ModerateCountry-Specific Activity
About Influenza (Flu)
What is the Flu?
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and can lead to hospitalization or death, especially in high-risk groups.
Common Symptoms
- ๐ค Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- ๐ท Cough and sore throat
- ๐คง Runny or stuffy nose
- ๐ช Muscle or body aches
- ๐ค Headaches
- ๐ด Fatigue (tiredness)
- ๐คข Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)
How it Spreads
Flu viruses spread mainly by tiny droplets when people with flu cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby. You can also get flu by touching a surface with flu virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
Flu Prevention & Protection
Get Vaccinated
Annual flu vaccine is the best protection. Get vaccinated before flu season begins (ideally by October).
Wash Hands Often
Wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap isn't available.
Wear a Mask
Wear a mask in crowded indoor spaces, especially during high flu activity periods.
Avoid Close Contact
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay home if you're sick.
Don't Touch Face
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Clean Surfaces
Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.
โ๏ธ When to Seek Medical Care
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
In Children:
- Fast or trouble breathing
- Bluish skin color
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Not waking up or not interacting
- Severe irritability
- Flu-like symptoms that improve but return with fever and worse cough
In Adults:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Pain or pressure in chest or abdomen
- Sudden dizziness or confusion
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- Flu-like symptoms that improve but return with fever and worse cough
High-Risk Groups
The following groups are at higher risk of serious flu complications:
Children under 5, especially under 2 years old
Adults 65 years and older
During and up to 2 weeks after pregnancy
Asthma, diabetes, heart disease, weakened immune system