Causes for Influenza (Flu)

The influenza is caused by three types of viruses - influenza A, B and C. Influenza types A and B are responsible for the respiratory disease that occurs almost every winter. Influenza type C usually causes a very mild disease often without symptoms.

This virus usually passes from one person to other through airborne transmission (i.e., sneezing or coughing). But, the virus can also live for a short time on objects (on which infected droplets landed) - such as door knobs, pens, pencils, keyboards, telephone receivers, and eating or drinking utensils.

Therefore, flu can also be spread through touching surfaces on which infected droplets landed or has been handled by someone infected with the virus and then touching it to your open parts like - mouth, nose, or eyes. Influenza virus may also be spread by inhaling droplets that have been coughed or sneezed out by an infected person.