The symptoms of seasonal flu are fatigue; fever; cough; chills; sore throat; muscle aches; runny and stuffy nose, and headaches. Some people experience vomiting and/or diarrhea, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Flu is caused by the influenza virus, and can be spread by coughing, touching, and close contact. Anyone can get the flu, but the risk of getting flu is highest among children, the elderly and individuals with chronic health conditions. Symptoms come on suddenly and may last several days. Emergency warning signs, in children, that require urgent medical attention include fast breathing or trouble breathing; bluish or gray skin color; not drinking enough fluids; severe or persistent vomiting; not waking up or interacting; irritability to the point of not wanting to be held and flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough. For adults, emergency warning signs that require urgent medical attention include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen; sudden dizziness; confusion; sever or persistent vomiting and flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough. Further inquiries or concerns should be directed to the patient's personal physician, or 9-1-1 if urgent/life-threatening.