The common name of the virus responsible for the flu is the influenza virus. This virus is categorized into four types: A, B, C, and D, with types A and B being responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks in humans. Influenza is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. Vaccination is a key prevention strategy against the flu, as it helps reduce the severity and spread of the virus during flu season every year.