Some people are more at risk of developing the flu or its complications because of their age, medications, or health conditions.
The most common at-risk groups are:
- children under 5 years of age (and especially children under 2 years of age)
- seniors (adults 65 years of age and over)
- pregnant women
- people with chronic (long-term) medical conditions
- people who are very overweight, with a body mass index (BMI) over 35
- people living in long-term care facilities or nursing homes
Some people are more at risk of the flu, but not necessarily of flu complications, including:
- people who work in health care facilities
- people who are regularly in close contact with babies and young children
Are you at risk of flu complications? Use the "Are you at risk of flu complications" tool to find out.
To help protect yourself and your family from flu complications:
- Make sure your whole family takes steps to prevent the flu.
- Find out if you or your family members are at risk of flu complications.
- If you are at risk of flu complications and you think you have the flu, see your doctor as soon as possible (find the flu clinic nearest to you). Use the doctor discussion guide to help you prepare for your visit. The doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication, which can reduce the risk of complications, reduce symptoms, and shorten the length of illness if taken within 48 hours of the start of your symptoms.
- If you are diagnosed with the flu, follow your doctor's instructions for flu treatment. If your doctor prescribes an antiviral medication, have the prescription filled as soon as possible, and keep taking the medication for as long as your doctor recommends.