Influenza A Spreads Quickly — If You Belong to These 6 Groups, You’re More Likely to Catch It

“I haven’t really been around anyone lately, so why did I suddenly get Influenza A?” — That’s the question many people are asking.

A few days ago, Mrs. Wang, 63, suddenly developed a high fever and severe body aches. At first, she thought it was “just a common cold.” But after visiting the hospital, she was shocked to learn she had Influenza A.

In her residential area, several neighbors had already been infected — some elderly, some young adults, even children. The doctor said something that made everyone shiver:
“People don't catch Influenza A for no reason. Your physical condition, lifestyle habits, and immunity might be exactly why you got infected.”

Many assume that Influenza A is “just a slightly worse cold,” but they don’t realize how fast it spreads, how quickly it progresses, and that the risk of complications is not small.

So what makes certain people more likely to get infected?

Research shows there are 6 groups at higher risk of catching Influenza A:

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1. People with weakened immune systems — the “shield” is gone

If you sleep late, rarely exercise, often eat fast food, drink alcohol, or live under prolonged stress, your immune system becomes compromised.
Your body responds more slowly to viruses, which makes you more vulnerable. That’s why people with chaotic eating and sleeping habits are often the first to get sick.

2. People with weak respiratory systems — smoking and chronic diseases open the door to infection

For smokers and those with chronic respiratory illnesses (asthma, chronic bronchitis, COPD…), the airway lining is already damaged.
When the flu virus enters, your “protective barrier” is weak, significantly raising your risk of infection and complications.

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3. People with underlying health conditions — diabetes, heart disease, and chronic illnesses increase vulnerability

Doctors say individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart or lung disease, liver or kidney issues have weaker immunity and poorer resistance to viruses.
Once infected with Influenza A, their condition can worsen quickly and requires special attention.

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4. Older adults — immunity declines with age

The older you are, the slower your body recovers. Immune cells decrease, and the response to viruses becomes weaker.
This makes elderly individuals one of the most high-risk groups for Influenza A.

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5. People under chronic stress — pressure quietly pushes the body into a fragile state

Chronic stress, heavy workloads, sleep deprivation, and poor rest all weaken immunity.
Many ignore this factor — yet it is one of the reasons the flu virus attacks so easily.

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6. People who spend long hours in enclosed, crowded, poorly ventilated spaces — perfect conditions for viruses

Influenza A spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking.
In crowded indoor spaces with poor ventilation, your risk of exposure rises sharply.
Apartments, offices, and air-conditioned rooms all create favorable conditions for virus transmission.

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How to avoid becoming “prey” for the flu

• Get enough sleep, eat healthily, and stay active: A strong immune system is your first line of defense.

• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands, clean common surfaces, and be cautious with shared objects — the virus can live for hours.

• Keep your environment warm and well-ventilated: Avoid staying too long in sealed air-conditioned rooms; open windows regularly.

• Limit exposure to crowded places during outbreaks and wear a mask when needed.

• If you’re elderly, have chronic illnesses, or are pregnant: consider getting a flu vaccine and monitor your health closely.

• Reduce stress and rest properly to keep your immune system strong.