Seasonal flu is a respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that affect millions of people every year.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the flu causes an estimated 3-5 million cases of severe illness and about 290,000-650,000 deaths worldwide annually.

While the flu can infect anyone, it is known to impact different groups of people differently – the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of developing severe flu-related complications.

Are Flu Risks Equal for All Genders?

Studies show that the gender of an individual may also be a potential factor in determining their likelihood of experiencing severe flu-related complications and survival rates. Generally, women have been known to report more cases of flu than men.

However, recent analyses show that men may have a higher risk of dying from the flu than women.

Higher Mortality Rates in Men

One reason why men might be more vulnerable to flu-related deaths is that they are typically less likely to seek medical care than women.

They are also more susceptible to developing chronic illnesses like heart disease, making them more likely to suffer from severe flu-related complications.

A study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine analyzed data from more than 35,000 patients with confirmed cases of flu, and found that men were more likely to die from the flu than women.

This study also found that men were less likely to seek medical attention or follow proper treatment for the flu.

Flu and Pregnancy

Pregnant women are also at a higher risk of developing flu-related complications.

Studies show that pregnant women who get the flu are more likely to be hospitalized, more likely to be admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), and more likely to have serious health problems like pneumonia or preterm labor.

However, despite being at a higher risk of developing severe complications, studies show that pregnant women have similar rates of survival as the general population.

It is important that pregnant women take extra care to ensure they are not exposed to the flu virus, through vaccinations or minimizing contact with persons who have flu-like symptoms.

Flu and Children

Children are another at-risk group when it comes to the flu – especially those aged 2 years and younger.

Children in this age group have a higher risk of developing severe flu-related complications such as pneumonia, dehydration, and bronchiolitis. It is essential for young children to receive the flu vaccine, as well as follow preventive measures such as washing their hands and avoiding contact with individuals who have flu-like symptoms.

Preventive Measures for All Genders

While women and men have different risk factors for developing flu-related complications, preventive measures apply to everyone. Here are some tips to prevent the flu:.

Get a flu vaccine
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
Stay home from work or school if you are feeling sick
Practice good health habits such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.

Conclusion

The flu can be dangerous for everyone, but some groups are more vulnerable than others. While men have been shown to have higher mortality rates, women are at a higher risk of developing the flu.

Pregnant women and young children are also at a higher risk of developing severe complications. It is essential to follow preventive measures and seek medical attention if you’re feeling unwell, as early treatment can prevent complications.