About the Flu

Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. There are two main types of influenza (flu) viruses: Types A and B. The influenza A and B viruses that routinely spread in people (human influenza viruses) are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year.

Flu Risks

Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions are at higher risk of serious flu complications. The flu virus causes millions of illnesses and thousands of deaths in the U.S. annually. The best way to reduce the risk of flu and its potentially serious complications is by getting vaccinated each year.

Local Flu Data

Cook County Department of Public Health collects and analyzes data on local flu activity year-round. During periods when higher influenza activity is expected (generally October to May), this information is compiled into a weekly surveillance report that is distributed to our partners in the healthcare community, schools, community groups, and the public. View our influenza surveillance reports. View our respiratory dashboard for more detailed surveillance data on flu, COVID-19 and RSV.

Flu Resources

Respiratory Diseases

Communicable Diseases

The Fact Is, Everyone Needs a Flu Shot

With rare exception, everyone six months and older should get a flu shot every year – even healthy people. The flu shot is especially important for people at increased risk of serious complications from flu.

These include:

People over age 65
People of any age with chronic conditions
Children under age 5
Pregnant women

Learn More

Take 3 Actions to Prevent the Flu

GET VACCINATED

The flu shot is the best protection against flu and flu-related illnesses, hospitalizations and deaths. It is safe, effective and available at no cost at many doctors’ offices, pharmacies, community health centers and flu clinics. Don’t wait to vaccinate. Get your flu shot as soon as possible. It takes two weeks to be fully effective. Learn more about the 2020-21 seasonal flu vaccine.

VaccineFinder

STOP GERMS

In addition to getting a flu vaccine, take everyday actions to help stop the spread of germs. Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your arm. Stay home as much as possible. If you must go out, wear a mask, watch your distance and wash your hands frequently. Avoid close contact with people that are sick and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.

GET TREATMENT

If you get sick with flu symptoms, in most cases, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people except to get medical care. If you become sick and are at increased risk for serious complications from flu, contact your doctor right away to discuss the benefits of antiviral medications that can be used to treat flu illness. Visit the CDC website for more information about antiviral medications.

CDC

Explore Our Media Gallery

The “Spread the Facts” campaign debunks common myths about flu and the flu vaccine and stresses the importance of getting a flu shot each year. High-resolution design files are available for download and use by partners interested in branding as their own with a source credit to CCDPH.