How is the influenza virus spread from one person to another?
Influenza is spread, or transmitted, when a person who has influenza coughs, sneezes, or speaks and sends respiratory droplets into the air. The virus enters the nose, throat, or lungs of a person and begins to multiply, causing symptoms of influenza. Influenza may, less often, be spread when a person touches a surface that has influenza viruses on it - a door handle, for instance - and then touches his or her nose or mouth.

Show All Answers

1. What is influenza (the flu)?
2. What are the symptoms of influenza?
3. What are some complications of influenza?
4. How is the influenza virus spread from one person to another?
5. Is influenza contagious?
6. What should I do if I get the flu?
7. How do you keep from getting the flu?