Which respiratory condition increases the risk of complications from influenza?

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can significantly increase the risk of complications from influenza. Individuals with asthma have inflamed airways that can become more reactive in the presence of respiratory infections like influenza, leading to exacerbations of their condition. The virus can induce increased inflammation, mucus production, and bronchoconstriction, resulting in more severe symptoms and difficulties in breathing.

People with asthma often experience heightened sensitivity to respiratory viruses, which can cause them to have more intense and prolonged symptoms, making them more susceptible to complications such as pneumonia or respiratory failure. Vaccination against influenza is particularly important for individuals with asthma to help prevent these potential complications.

While other options, such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease, are also associated with an increased risk of complications from influenza, asthma specifically highlights the direct impact of a pre-existing respiratory condition on the likelihood of experiencing severe effects from the viral infection.