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Influenza is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system, including the lungs, throat and nose. Influenza is commonly known as flu but differs from stomach flu, which causes vomiting and diarrhea. People at high risk of developing influenza include children under 5 and 2 years old; adults over 65 years old; people who live in retirement homes; those with weak immune systems pregnant women; obese or overweight people; people with chronic diseases such as heart disease, asthma, kidney disease, liver disease and diabetes. In common situations, the symptoms of influenza or influenza go away on their own. The influenza vaccine is important for the prevention of influenza.
First signs and symptoms of the flu
The flu begins with a cold and a runny nose. At first, it is likely to cause frequent sneezing and sore throat. While the cold develops slowly, the symptoms of the flu are likely to develop suddenly. The flu makes that person feel a lot worse than a cold.
The most common early signs of influenza include fever over 100.4 ° F, chills and sweats, headache, persistent cough, nasal congestion, sore muscles, and sore throat.
Wash your hands regularly to prevent the spread of flu
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Also read: What is the difference between a cold and the flu?
Common causes of influenza
Influenza viruses spread in the air as droplets when an infected person coughs, talks or sneezes. The droplets can be either inhaled directly or extracted from the germs of an object. People with the virus will probably be more contagious the day before the onset of the first symptoms of the flu, and this, until 5 days after the onset of symptoms. The most infectious are children and people whose immune systems are weakened.
A person with the flu in the past has made antibodies that can fight this strain of the virus. These antibodies help reduce the severity of a subsequent infection and even prevent other infections.
A young and healthy person will not suffer from a seasonal flu that is too serious. The flu is likely to disappear within a week or two without any lasting effect. However, children and people with weakened immune systems may develop complications such as ear infections, bronchitis, asthma attacks, pneumonia and heart problems.
Do you cover your mouth by coughing in case of flu
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Read also: What to eat for colds and flu – Nmami suggested celebrity nutritionist
How to prevent the flu?
The most effective way to prevent influenza is the annual flu vaccination recommended for all people over 6 months of age. This vaccination provides protection against 3 or 4 types of common influenza viruses. The vaccine is available as a nasal spray and as an injection.
The nasal spray flu vaccine is not recommended in children aged 2 to 4 years with asthma or wheezing, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.
Read also: Swine flu: 7 best home remedies
How to control the spread of the flu?
Washing your hands regularly can prevent the spread of the flu. You should cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Cough or sneeze into a tissue to avoid contaminating your hands. It is also recommended to avoid overcrowded places because the flu spreads easily in these places. Avoiding crowded places reduces the risk of infection. It is recommended to stay home at least 24 hours after the end of the fever to reduce the risk of infecting others.
Disclaimer: This content, including tips, provides generic information only. It is not in any way a substitute for qualified medical advice. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim any responsibility for this information.
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