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Influenza

  • Person in a yellow shirt smiling with arms crossed, surrounded by various illustrated bacteria in circles against a green background.

    The Microbiome and Its Role in Asthma & Allergies (New Webinar)

    Free Webinar | February 25, 2025 | 4:00 PM ET Discover how the diverse community of microorganisms in our bodies influences respiratory health and…

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    Allergy & Asthma Network Celebrates 40 Years of Impact and Serving as the Patient Voice

    Allergy & Asthma Network announced the kickoff of a year-long celebration to mark its 40th anniversary, commemorating four decades of significant contributions.

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    Marijuana Use & Asthma: Risks and Considerations for Users (New Webinar)

    Free Webinar January 30, 2025 | 4 PM ET As cannabis use becomes legal in more states, many people are seeking it out for…

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    Hives Caused by Touch or Cold?

    Are chronic hives triggered by touch or cold temperatures disrupting your life? Consider participating in our research study that is looking EVO756, a new…

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    Epinephrine for Anaphylaxis: What Treatments are Available?

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    Navigating the Holidays with Asthma and Allergies

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    20th Anniversary of Landmark Law: Student Right to Self-Carry Inhalers at School

    October 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of landmark federal legislation allowing students to self-carry and use their quick-relief asthma inhaler at school.

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    Learn how you can minimize risk and maximize safety at Halloween when you have a child with a food allergy, asthma or latex allergy.

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    Delaware Adopts Law Covering Early Introduction of Food Allergens

    Allergy & Asthma Network applauds Delaware for a new law that requires insurance companies to cover early introduction of food allergens.

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    Allergy & Asthma Network’s Tori Martel Wins National Honor

    Allergy & Asthma Network is honored to once again earn recognition for its commitment to community outreach, health equity & fostering new nonprofit leadership.

All About

Influenza

The flu is more than an annoyance for people with asthma. Since asthma irritates the airways, flu may make symptoms worse or cause a flare-up as airways narrow with mucus buildup. It is critical for people with asthma to get the annual flu shot. Doctors recommend the flu vaccine every year because the viruses that cause influenza mutate rapidly and immunity decreases after one year. Flu vaccines are available as an injection or a nasal spray (LAIV). However, nasal spray vaccines have limitations: they are not available for people with asthma or pregnant women and they are only given to those ages 2-49. If you have asthma and get the flu, check in with your doctor even if your symptoms don’t seem severe. The risk of severe complications such as pneumonia may make you a candidate for antiviral drugs. These can make your symptoms milder and prevent complications. They are most effective when taken at the start of an infection. Pay attention to these flu warning signs that signal immediate medical attention is needed:

  • Fever above 104°
  • Trouble breathing
  • Wheezing or whistling breath
  • Chest pain
  • Dizziness or confusion
  • Not urinating, dehydration
  • Seizures
  • Bluish lips or face
  • Severe muscle aches that cause trouble/refusal to walk
  • Fever or cough that improves but then worsens
  • Weakness or unsteadiness
  • Symptoms of a chronic medical condition worsen
If you have asthma, be especially vigilant against the flu. Along with getting the flu vaccine, make sure to follow good hygiene such as washing hands frequently and avoiding others who are sick with flu. It’s also important to avoid spreading the flu if you have it. Stay home if you’re sick and cough or sneeze into your elbow rather than your hand.

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