Quick Facts | Flu | UC Davis Health

Flu can cause mild to severe illness. At times it can lead to death.

Most people who get the flu will recover in several days to less than two weeks. But some people will develop complications as a result of the flu.

Flu regularly ranks among the top ten causes of death in the U.S.

In normal times, every year 40 to 60 million Americans get the flu, and 12,000 to 61,000 of them die.

Getting both the flu and COVID-19 together – or one after the other – could also lead to major health issues.

The CDC recommends annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older, with few exceptions.

It is especially important that people in some higher-risk groups get flu vaccines, such as:

• People at high risk of serious flu complications. For example, flu can be more dangerous for the elderly, people with underlying health conditions like diabetes, and children.

• People who live with or care for people at high risk for developing flu-related complications. In this case, the flu vaccine helps protect both you and the people you love.

The flu vaccine is updated every year. This is to combat the flu viruses that research indicates are most likely to cause illness during the upcoming season.

The flu vaccine does not give you the flu. Even a low fever or muscle soreness are signs the vaccine is working.

There are some people who should not get a flu vaccine without first consulting a doctor.

Virtually all health insurance plans usually cover flu vaccines. However, they may place restrictions on where a person can receive the shot for free. (As always, check with your health provider's office or insurance plan if you're not sure).

Flu vaccines are one of the ways we protect our own patients. All UC Davis Health employees are required to get a flu vaccine, with limited exceptions.