Background and sources for covering seasonal flu

Influenza, a disease caused by a virus that attacks the lungs, is endemic to humanity. The virus is always circulating and often strike populations in the late fall or winter seasons.

When flu virus attacks the respiratory system, it can weaken the immune system leaving the body vulnerable to contracting other serious diseases like pneumonia and tuberculosis, and cause death.

Learn about new research showing “strong associations” between the development of respiratory infections, especially influenza, and heart attacks and strokes in older adults. Get more background, data, contact information for experts and some questions that reporters should be pursuing in this tip sheet.