Flu (Influenza)

Flu Terms Defined
Seasonal (or common) flu is a respiratory illness that can be transmitted person to person. Most people have some immunity, and a vaccine is available.

Avian (or bird) flu is caused by influenza viruses that occur naturally among wild birds. The H5N1 variant is deadly to domestic fowl and can be transmitted from birds to humans. There is no human immunity and no vaccine is available.

Star anise is the licorice flavored star-shaped fruit of a tree grown in China. It is used as an herb (similar to anise), but it is also the source of shikimic acid from Tamiflu is made.

Only star anise grown in some Chinese provinces is suitable for making Tamiflu, so if you are planning to start using star anise to try to prevent Avian Flu read the label. (Tamiflu cannot prevent the flu but reduces the severity.)