The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 5 to 20 percent of the U.S. population get sick with the flu every year. People who have compromised immune systems, young children and the elderly are at risk for developing complications with the flu. The CDC recommends that everyone, especially those in the high risk group receive a flu shot every year.
Bacterial Pneumonia
Bacterial pneumonia occurs when bacteria grows in the lungs. The alveoli (microscopic air sacks in the lungs) fill with fluid and become inflamed causing the lungs to become less elastic. The lungs have to work harder to take in oxygen and remove carbon dioxide, resulting in people developing shortness of breath. When the lungs become inflamed, other symptoms, such as fever, chest pain and coughing, develop.
Bronchitis
Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs. Signs and symptoms include chest discomfort, a productive cough (mucus that is clear, yellowish or greenish in color) wheezing, low grade fever, shortness of breath and fatigue.
Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when the body doesn't have enough water to carry out its normal functions. Infants and the elderly are at high risk for becoming dehydrated. According to the Mayo Clinic, signs and symptoms include dry mouth, dark urine or less urination, dizziness and headache. In infants signs and symptoms include fewer wet diapers, being less active, fewer tears when crying and a sunken soft spot on top of the baby's head. Gatorade or Pedialyte contain the right amount of sodium (salt), sugar and electrolytes that the body needs.
Encephalitis
Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain and can be life-threatening. People who have a mild case may have headache, fever, joint pain and fatigue. A more serious case of encephalitis includes confusion (hallucinations can occur), seizures, double vision, loss of sensation is areas and a bulging soft spot in infants.
Ear Infections
Ear infections occur when the small tube that connects the throat to the ear begins swell. This generally occurs when a person is sick. When the tube swells it traps fluid causing bacteria to grow, resulting in an infection. People will develop an ear aches and sometimes a fever. Babies and young children may become fussy and pull at their ear.
Acute Sinusitis
When a person develops acute sinusitis the sinuses become inflamed and cause mucus to build up, resulting in the person to have difficult time breathing through their nose. The area around the eyes may feel swollen and the person often has a headache.
Worsening of Chronic Diseases
Chronic diseases include heart disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, stroke and cancer. People with chronic diseases are at a higher risk for getting the flu because their immune system is already weakened by their disease. They are also more likely to develop complications from the flu, thus making it essential for these people to get a flu shot every year.
