Health Tip: Flu 101

(HealthDay News) -- About 10 percent of Americans get the flu each year, mostly as the weather turns colder.

While for most people the flu is a major inconvenience but a minor health threat, for older adults and others with weaker immune systems, the flu can be life-threatening.

The U.S. National Institute on Aging says you should contact a doctor without delay if:

• Your fever goes away and comes back. This could be a sign of a more dangerous infection.
• You start having breathing problems or other serious health issues.
• You don't feel like you're getting better.
• You have a cough that stems from thick mucus.