INFLUENZA

Known as: Influenza "The Flu"

About: From one of 4 types of Influenza virus (A, B, C, D)

Microscope: Sphere shapes with spiky outsides 

What Can It Do: Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a sneaky virus that can enter your body when you least expect it. The flu is caused by a virus, and it can make you feel pretty yucky. The flu symptoms often start with a high fever, headache, and body aches, much like when you catch a cold. It can be especially tough for little kids and older folks.

Help: Don't worry, kids! There's a superhero in town, and it's called a flu shot! Doctors and scientists have created a special vaccine to help keep the flu away. Just like your favorite superhero, this vaccine can protect you from getting sick.

Most kids get their first flu shot when they're a bit bigger, around 6 months old. You might also get a second one later on, between 4 and 6 years old.

So, what happens if you still get the flu? Well, just like when you have a cold, your parents will help you feel better. They'll give you medicine to reduce your fever and help with the aches and pains. And, of course, they'll give you lots of love and cozy blankets to feel better.

Infectious Rating: The flu is quite catchy, just like when you play catch with your friends. It spreads from person to person when someone with the flu sneezes, coughs, or even talks. So, it's important to cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough and wash your hands like a pro to help stop the flu from spreading.

I Feel Sick: One of the main clues that the flu is hanging out with you is a high fever. Sometimes, you might even get a runny or stuffy nose, a sore throat, and a cough. The flu can be pretty tricky, just like a puzzle, but it's important to tell your parents if you're feeling sick, so they can help you.

Skin Symptoms: Unlike Rubella's bright red rash, the flu doesn't give you a rash. But you might notice that your cheeks look rosy when you have a fever. It's like your cheeks are turning into apples!

Geography + Statistics: The flu has been around for a long time, and it's like a ninja that can pop up anywhere in the world. There have been times when lots of people got sick from the flu, like in the past. But thanks to doctors and scientists, we have flu shots now to help protect us. Still, some people in different parts of the world may get the flu more often, especially if they don't have easy access to flu shots. But we're all in this together, and we can all help each other stay healthy and strong!