People with Respiratory Conditions
Respiratory or lung conditions include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, chronic bronchitis and pulmonary fibrosis12. Those who have these conditions need to be especially aware of risks stemming from the flu. Each year, about 17% of flu-related deaths are seen in people with chronic respiratory diseases13.
Asthma is the most common respiratory condition that affects a large number of children and adults14. For them, the flu is a serious threat, even if their asthma is mild or well-controlled by medication14. In both children and adults, respiratory viral infections are the number one trigger for asthma episodes15. Influenza can cause further inflammation to their already sensitive airways and lungs14. This worsens asthma symptoms and increase the likelihood of pneumonia or other acute respiratory diseases setting in14.
For people with lung conditions, each day could be a constant struggle. Breathe a little easier by making the annual flu vaccination a part of your personal healthcare regimen14.
