Which group is considered at higher risk for developing complications from the flu?

The group considered at higher risk for developing complications from the flu includes older adults and individuals with chronic illnesses. This is due to several factors.

As people age, their immune system naturally weakens, making it harder for them to fight off infections like the flu. Older adults often have pre-existing health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, or respiratory illnesses, which can complicate the flu and lead to more severe health issues or hospitalization.

Moreover, chronic illnesses can impair the body’s ability to respond to viral infections, increasing the likelihood of complications. This group may experience more severe symptoms, long-lasting effects, or require more intensive medical intervention compared to healthier individuals.

In contrast, other groups mentioned, such as young children or young adults, generally do not experience the same level of risk related to chronic health issues. Although children under 5 may be at risk due to their developing immune systems, the presence of chronic conditions tends to significantly elevate the risk for complications in older adults. Individuals who have received the flu vaccine are generally better protected against severe outcomes of the infection, as vaccination helps to bolster the immune response against the virus.