Quick answer: People at higher risk of serious flu complications include adults 65 and older, children under 5, pregnant people and those up to 2 weeks after delivery, and people with asthma, COPD, heart disease, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, obesity or a weakened immune system. If you are high-risk, get a yearly flu shot and get seen quickly if symptoms start, since antivirals are recommended for you.
For most healthy adults, the flu means a miserable week. For people in higher-risk groups, it can lead to pneumonia, hospital stays or worsening of an existing condition. Knowing your risk helps you act early.
Who is at higher risk?
| Group | Why the flu is riskier |
|---|---|
| Adults 65 and older | Immune response weakens with age. Most flu hospitalizations and deaths occur in this group |
| Children under 5, especially under 2 | Higher risk of dehydration, pneumonia and hospitalization (see flu in kids) |
| Pregnant and recently pregnant people | Changes in the immune system, heart and lungs raise the risk of severe illness |
| Asthma and COPD | Flu inflames airways and can trigger severe flare-ups (see asthma flare-ups) |
| Heart disease | Flu raises the risk of heart attack and stroke in the weeks after infection |
| Diabetes | Illness makes blood sugar harder to control |
| Kidney, liver or blood disorders | Less reserve to fight infection |
| Weakened immune system | Cancer treatment, HIV, steroids or transplant medicines reduce protection |
| Obesity (BMI 40 or higher) | Linked to more severe illness |
| Nursing home residents | Close contact and age raise risk |
What high-risk people should do
Before flu season
- Get a flu shot by the end of October. Adults 65+ should ask for a high-dose, adjuvanted or recombinant vaccine (see flu shot guide)
- Ask about COVID-19 and RSV vaccines if eligible (see flu and COVID shots together)
- Have a plan: know your nearest Alexandria or Ruther Glen flu clinic
When symptoms start
- Get seen within 48 hours. The CDC recommends antivirals for high-risk people with suspected flu, even before test results come back
- Get a rapid flu test to confirm
- Can’t get out? Start with a telehealth visit
- Watch closely for emergency warning signs
Caregivers and family members
If you live with or care for someone high-risk, getting your own flu shot is one of the best ways to protect them. If you get sick, stay home and keep your distance until you’re fever-free for 24 hours (see how long to stay home).
Frequently asked questions
Should I take Tamiflu if I’m high-risk?
The CDC recommends antivirals for people at higher risk who have flu, ideally within 48 hours. Your provider will decide if it’s right for you. See Tamiflu and antivirals.
Is the flu dangerous during pregnancy?
Yes, pregnant people are more likely to get seriously ill. The flu shot is safe during pregnancy and also protects the baby after birth.
What complications should high-risk people watch for?
Pneumonia, worsening asthma or heart disease, and dehydration. Read flu complications.
Where can I learn more?
See the CDC’s list of people at higher risk of flu complications at cdc.gov/flu.
Get care today at PACS Urgent Care
Walk in or book online at our Alexandria flu clinic (3481 N Beauregard St, open 7 days, 8 AM to 8 PM) or book at our Ruther Glen flu clinic (17067 Merchants Dr, Monday to Friday 8 AM to 8 PM, Saturday and Sunday 9 AM to 5 PM). Prefer to stay home? Start with a telemedicine visit.
This article is general information and is not a substitute for advice from your own clinician.
