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Influenza virus belongs to the family of Orthomyxoviridae. It is an enveloped virus with segments of RNA as its genetic material. The main types infecting humans are Influenza A and B. Influenza A is further divided into subtypes based on hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N) proteins, such as H1N1 and H3N2. Influenza B has two lineages: Victoria and Yamagata.

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The Influenza virus has a somewhat spherical or elongated body rotatoid shape. Its peripheral lipid envelope contains the 2 surface proteins hemagglutinin (H) which serves for attachment to the host cells and neuraminidase (N) which functions in the release of newly formed viruses. Within, it possesses 8 segments of unipolar negative RNA. An M2 ion channel protein is also associated with the envelope. The efficiency with which cells are infected by the virus is due to its structure.

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The flu is caused by the influenza virus. This is an acute respiratory infection which affect the lungs, throat and nose. There are possibilities of complications arising during these illnesses. The illness can result in pneumonia or death in some of the higher risk groups. Influenza outbreaks are seasonal and most commonly occur in the winter and fall.

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The influenza virus is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets from sneezes and coughs. touching one's mouth, nose, or eyes after coming into contact with contaminated surfaces can also lead to its transmission. A person is infectious 1 day prior to the onset of symptoms and for up to 5–7 days post illness. It becomes very easy for the virus to spread rapidly in a population near crowded places.

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Common flu signs are fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, and fatigue. Muscle soreness and tiredness are also common. Symptoms tend to appear suddenly and can be either mild, moderate, or quite severe.

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Individuals most susceptible to serious complications from the flu virus include those aged 65 and older, children under the age of 5 (most significantly those under 2), expectant mothers, and people suffering from long term illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease. People with compromised immune systems are also at risk. These groups can be hospitalized or even die from the flu.

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Annual flu vaccinations are the most effective way to avoid getting the virus. Other methods include covering sneezes and coughs, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and frequent handwashing. Risk of contamination can also be mitigated by disinfecting surfaces. Vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older annually.

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Rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking over-the-counter fever and pain relievers manage the majority of flu cases. Illness duration may be reduced with antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) but only if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. Hospital care may be necessary for severe cases, especially in the development of pneumonia. Antibiotics are ineffective in treating viral infections, including the flu.

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New and little-known subtypes of viruses that people have weak immunity towards pose a chance to induce pandemics. The seasonal flu is caused by antigenic drift while pandemics are a result of antigenic shift. One of the deadliest was the Spanish Flu of 1918. For both focused and unfocused prevention, surveillance, and changes to vaccines are key.

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Influenza A viruses are also known to infect a wide range of animals such as birds, pigs and horses. Infectious animal-origin viruses in humans include Bird flu (H5N1) and Swine flu (H1N1). Efforts are being made for a universal flu vaccine that would offer broader and longer-lasting defenses.