The life-threatening dangers of long flu - from diabetes risk to brain inflammation
Medical researchers are highlighting the risks of 'long flu,' a condition where symptoms persist for months after the initial infection. Similar to long Covid, it is associated with increased risks of diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and neurological inflammation.
Why it matters
Understanding long-term post-viral complications is essential for public health policy and encouraging vaccination uptake.
The life-threatening dangers of long flu — from diabetes risk to brain inflammation It's the start of another flu season in the U.S. and millions of Americans are expected to fall ill.
Most cases end on their own after a few days but, in rare cases, symptoms can last for months — similarly to long Covid infections that are estimated to affect one in six people.
People can experience a persistent cough, fever and runny nose, as well as inflammation that negatively affects organs, including the brain. There are also mental health problems , such as memory problems and sleepiness.
These illnesses are what experts call "long flu," impacting the respiratory system, according to researchers at WashU Medicine .
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