flu
noun
Flu is a contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus that can enter the body through the nose or mouth. When you have flu, you feel very ill, your body aches and you have a fever. Sometimes you may also have a headache, sore throat, cough and runny nose. As the cause of the flu is a virus and not bacteria, you do not need to take antibiotics, however, your doctor may give you medication to reduce your fever and make you feel better. In some cases, it is advisable to get vaccinated to avoid catching the flu.
We often confuse flu with a cold.