B2nounformalhealthscience
US/ˌɪn.fluːˈen.zə/
UK/ˌɪn.fluːˈen.zə/
a common infectious illness that causes fever, a sore throat and body aches; the full name of flu
In context
Influenza spreads easily in winter, especially in crowded offices and schools.
Older people are advised to get a yearly influenza vaccine.
The influenza virus changes every year, so last year's shot may not protect you.
Words that go with influenza
noun + noun
- influenza virusThe influenza virus mutates quickly.
- influenza vaccineThe influenza vaccine is free for seniors.
- influenza outbreakAn influenza outbreak closed several schools.
- influenza epidemicThe influenza epidemic of 1918 killed millions.
verb + noun
- catch influenzaMany workers caught influenza last month.
verb + preposition
- suffer from influenzaShe suffered from influenza for a week.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
an influenzaCorrect: influenza