If you have asthma, a case of the flu can be more than a few miserable days in bed. Flu inflames the airways and can trigger asthma attacks, and people with asthma are at higher risk of serious flu complications such as pneumonia. That’s true even if your asthma is mild or well controlled. The good news is that you can take steps to protect yourself.
Why flu is harder on people with asthma
People with asthma already have sensitive, inflamed airways. The flu virus adds more inflammation and mucus, which can narrow the airways further and lead to wheezing, shortness of breath and asthma flare-ups. Respiratory infections are one of the most common triggers of asthma attacks in both children and adults, and they can lead to emergency visits and hospital stays.
Get vaccinated every year
An annual flu vaccine is one of the most important steps for people with asthma. Key points:
- The flu shot is the preferred option for people with asthma. The nasal spray vaccine is generally not recommended for children 2 to 4 with asthma or a recent history of wheezing, and people with asthma should ask their doctor before using it.
- Get vaccinated early in the season, ideally by the end of October.
- Household members should get vaccinated too, to reduce the chance of bringing flu home.
A note on changing guidance: U.S. federal vaccine recommendations have changed several times since 2025, and some changes have been challenged in court. In 2026, a federal court order kept earlier recommendations in place while the case continues. Medical groups such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) also publish their own recommendations. Because guidance may change, check with your doctor or pharmacist about what’s recommended for you.
Other vaccines to consider
Ask your doctor whether you should also get a pneumococcal vaccine, which helps protect against pneumonia, and whether a COVID-19 or RSV vaccine is recommended for you.
Keep your asthma under control
- Take your controller medicines every day as prescribed.
- Keep your rescue inhaler with you at all times.
- Make sure your asthma action plan is up to date and includes what to do when you’re sick.
- Avoid other triggers, like smoke and allergens.
If you get the flu
- Call your doctor right away. People with asthma are considered at higher risk, so antiviral treatment is often recommended. Antivirals work best when started within 48 hours of symptoms. Read about flu antivirals.
- Follow your asthma action plan, including steps for increasing medicine if your symptoms worsen.
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
- Watch for warning signs.
When to seek emergency care
- Your rescue inhaler isn’t helping, or you need it more often than every 4 hours
- Severe shortness of breath or trouble speaking
- Lips or fingernails turning blue or gray
- Chest pain, confusion or extreme drowsiness
Learn what to do during an asthma attack.
What this means for you
Before flu season, check that your asthma medicines are filled, review your action plan with your doctor and schedule your flu vaccine. Taking these steps early can help you stay out of the emergency room.
The bottom line
Flu can trigger serious asthma flare-ups and complications. An annual flu shot, good asthma control and early treatment if you get sick are the best ways to protect yourself.
Common questions
Can the flu shot trigger an asthma attack?
The flu shot is considered safe for people with asthma and doesn’t cause asthma attacks. Side effects are usually mild, like a sore arm.
This article is for general information and isn’t medical advice. Talk with your healthcare provider about your individual needs.
