INTRODUCTION:
Influenza is a contagious viral illness that affects both the upper and lower respiratory tracts. It is caused by a wide variety of influenza viruses. Some of these viruses can infect humans, while others are species-specific. These viruses spread via respiratory droplets released from the mouth and respiratory system during coughing, talking, or sneezing. Touching inanimate things polluted with the virus and touching the nose or eye might spread the influenza virus. Influenza can be transferred before symptoms appear and up to 5 to 7 days following infection. Most healthy people recover completely within a few days of infection, although complications such as pneumonia and mortality occur in certain high-risk groups. While the flu vaccine is not 100 percent effective, it can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms in the majority of people. Individuals with lung disease, diabetes, chronic illnesses, the elderly, and children should all obtain the flu vaccine since it can prevent hospitalization.
Symptoms:
Symptoms vary from person to person according to their immune system. People with a weak immune system experience this flu more often because their defensive systems aren’t able to fight back against this influenza virus. People in the long run experience these common symptoms, which are as follows:
- Fever
- Dry, chesty cough
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Chills
- Aching muscles
- Limb or joint pain
- Diarrhea or upset stomach
- Sore throat
- Runny or blocked nose
- Sneezing
- Loss of appetite
Treatment:
If a person is going through the flu symptoms so it doesn’t mean that he needs to jump to the medication first. Taking care of yourself by
getting enough rest
To avoid dehydration, drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic fluids.
remaining warm by eating a nutritious diet rich in fruits and veggies
avoiding cigarette smoke exposure wherever possible
To relieve a blocked nose, inhale steam from a hot bath or shower in a closed area — Always keep an eye on children while they are near hot water.
If you have a sore throat, try:
- Gargling with warm salty water
- Sucking on an ice cube, ice block or a throat lozenge
- Drinking hot water with honey and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Prevention:
To help reduce the transmission of flu, follow these simple steps:
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- Vaccine: The influenza vaccination wears off after 3 to 4 months and flu strains (types) fluctuate over time, it is critical to obtain it every year to stay protected. See Flu Vaccine FAQs for more information about the flu vaccine.
- Hand hygiene: In addition to vaccination, excellent hygiene is one of the most effective strategies to help prevent the spread of flu and other infections. Hand washing should be done on a regular basis.
- Coughs and sneezes should be covered: When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose.
- Dumb your tissue wisely: Immediately dispose of used tissues in the trash can.
- Sharing is not caring: If possible, avoid sharing glasses, plates, silverware, and towels with other people.
- Keep all surfaces clean: To eliminate germs, clean surfaces such as your keyboard, phone, and door knobs on a regular basis.
- Home self-care: In most situations, moderate flu or cold symptoms can be treated at home.
Conclusion:
Influenza, sometimes known as the flu, is a respiratory ailment caused by a viral infection. The flu is extremely contagious and spreads by respiratory droplets. It can be passed on by conversation or physical touch, such as shaking hands. The flu is not the same as a cold. A cold does not normally cause a temperature, although the flu does. Cold symptoms usually appear gradually; however, flu symptoms might appear suddenly. Cold symptoms are usually milder than flu symptoms. After catching the flu, a person may feel fatigued for several weeks. Flu is more prone to cause complications and can be fatal if not addressed.
