influenza

[ˌɪn.fluˈen.zə]

influenza Definition

a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory passages causing fever, severe aching, and catarrh, and often occurring in epidemics.

Using influenza: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "influenza" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  She caught influenza and had to stay home for a week.

• Example

  The influenza outbreak affected many people in the city.

• Example

  Influenza vaccines are recommended for high-risk individuals.

influenza Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for influenza

• flu
• viral infection
• respiratory infection

Phrases with influenza

• avian influenza

  a type of influenza caused by viruses adapted to birds

  Example

  Avian influenza can be transmitted to humans who come into contact with infected birds.

• swine influenza

  a type of influenza caused by viruses adapted to pigs

  Example

  Swine influenza can be transmitted to humans who come into contact with infected pigs.

• seasonal influenza

  a type of influenza that occurs in seasonal outbreaks

  Example

  Seasonal influenza is usually caused by influenza A or B viruses.

Origins of influenza

from Italian 'influenza', meaning 'influence'

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Summary: influenza in Brief

The term 'influenza' [ˌɪn.fluˈen.zə] refers to a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory passages that causes fever, severe aching, and catarrh. It often occurs in epidemics and can be prevented by vaccines. 'Influenza' extends into phrases like 'avian influenza,' 'swine influenza,' and 'seasonal influenza,' which denote specific types of the virus.