Flu-related complications are most common in pregnant women and the obese.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that people with certain medical conditions are more likely to be hospitalized for flu-related complications, a news release reported.
This flu season has seen more hospitalization among the obese than past years. Obese individuals have made up over 40 percent of all hospital visits related to the flu recently.
Twenty-two percent of women of childbearing age (between 15 and 44) who were hospitalized for flu-related complications have been pregnant.
"Other people at high risk for serious flu complications include: those with underlying chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, morbid obesity, and neurological conditions; pregnant women; those younger than 5 years or older than 65 years of age; and anyone with a weakened immune system," the CDC news release reported.
Only about 40 percent of U.S. citizens get vaccinated every year. Young adults are even less likely to get vaccinated.
The number of flu-related deaths has surpassed the epidemic threshold this year, meaning more of these cases than expected have occurred.
Flu deaths usually occur primarily in patients over the age of 65; this year only 23 percent of all flu deaths have occurred in this age range. Children younger than five are also considered to have one of the highest risks of flu-related death.
The CDC recommends that everyone receive a flu shot, especially those with higher risk factors.
Signs and symptoms of the flu include: "Fever over 100 [degrees Fahrenheit]; Aching muscles, especially in your back, arms and legs;Chills and sweats; Headache; Dry cough; Fatigue and weakness; Nasal congestion," a MayoClinic news release reported.
Antivirals taken within the first 48 hours of noticeable symptoms can help reduce the length of the flu and prevent complications.
