What is Influenza?
Influenza is an infectious respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. Influenza can range from mild to severe symptoms, and in some cases, it can cause death.
How does Influenza Spread?
Flu is a very contagious disease. It can spread from person to person through droplets from:
The flu virus can also be transmitted by touching a surface or an object contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.
What are the Symptoms of Influenza?
Symptoms may range from mild to severe and include:
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Vomiting and diarrhea
Mode of Transmission
- Person to person: Flu can spread up to 6 feet away through droplets from coughs, sneezes, or talking.
- A person can also contract influenza by touching a contaminated surface or object and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.
High Risk Groups
- Young children
- Pregnant women
- People aged 65 years and older
- People with chronic health conditions, including:
- Diabetes
- Heart diseases and stroke
- Respiratory diseases
- Liver diseases
- Kidney diseases
- Obesity
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
Treatment
Antiviral drugs work best when started within 2 days after flu symptoms begin. They can:
- Lessen symptoms
- Shorten the duration of illness
- Prevent serious complications such as pneumonia
Tips to Relieve Symptoms:
- Drink plenty of fluids (water, juice, warm soups) to prevent dehydration.
- Rest and sleep to strengthen the immune system.
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Exercise to reduce stress and improve immune function.
- Consider pain relievers if needed.
Preventive Steps
A yearly flu vaccine is recommended to protect against flu viruses.
Everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs:
- Keep hands away from eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces and objects.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Follow cough etiquette.