What is a common symptom of influenza?

Myalgias, or muscle aches, are a hallmark symptom of influenza, also commonly referred to as the flu. This viral infection typically presents with a sudden onset of symptoms that can include fever, chills, fatigue, and severe muscle aches. These myalgias are due to the body’s immune response to the virus, as inflammatory cytokines are released which can lead to muscle pain and discomfort.

In contrast, other options such as chest pain are not typically associated with influenza unless there is a secondary complication like pneumonia. Severe abdominal pain is more indicative of gastrointestinal infections or other acute abdominal conditions rather than influenza. Joint swelling is generally more related to inflammatory conditions or injuries and is not a common symptom of influenza. Thus, myalgias are strongly associated with the flu and reflect the systemic nature of the viral infection.