Influenza (Flu)
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It spreads around mainly by coughing or sneezing around individuals, less often by touching a contaminated surface or touching body parts. The flu can spread one day before getting sick to 5-7 days after but lasts even longer for folks with a weak immune system.
Some symptoms of influenza include:
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Runny/Stuffy nose
- Fever
- Vomiting/Diarrhea
- Headaches
*The usual signs are coughing, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, & chills*
Treatment
Make sure to always keep your hands cleaned and washed with soap. Always cover your mouth when it comes to sneezing or coughing and point away from anyone nearby. Don’t share any hygienic items like toothbrushes or personal items like food or drinks. Doing all these can minimize developing flu-related problems. Most symptoms are mild but if it comes to a point where you believe there’s an increased risk of a serious flu-related complication, contact you health provider for further instructions.
Who Is More Prone To Getting The Flu?
People with asthma
People with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, etc.
Pregnant women or women who gave birth within two weeks
Children younger than 5 years old
Adults over age 50
People with weak immune systems
Preventing Influenza
The first thing anyone should do to prevent the flu would be to get an annual flu shot to reduce risks that could lead to bigger problems if not taken care of properly. Make sure to stay away from anyone that is sick and distance yourself to slow the spread of any germs. If you yourself are sick, you must isolate yourself until you get better and clean up after wherever you touch to decrease the spread of germs and bacteria.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/index.html