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:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Talking
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
Influenza can affect anyone, including healthy individuals, and complications may arise at any age. Nevertheless, certain population groups are at an increased risk of developing serious complications if they get infected. These groups include:
- Children under the age of 5
- 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 medications can be used to treat influenza symptoms. Influenza antiviral drugs are prescription-only medicines available in the form of tablets, liquid, inhaled powder, or intravenous solution, and they work by fighting influenza viruses in the body. These medications are not sold over the counter; they can only be obtained with a prescription from a healthcare provider. These drugs help to:
- Relieve 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
It is recommended to receive the annual influenza vaccine to prevent influenza 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.