Influenza, or flu, is a respiratory illness/infection caused by a virus. It is highly contagious and is normally spread by the coughs and sneezes of an infected person. You can also catch flu by just touching the infected person like shaking hands etc.
Adult flu is contagious, 1–2 days before getting symptoms and up to 7 days after becoming ill.
Fast facts on flu
Antibiotics cannot treat flu only antivirals
Vaccination every year is an effective way to prevent flu
The flu vaccine is not suitable for certain groups of people (who have a severe allergy to chicken eggs)
Flu is generally not serious but, it is unpleasant. However, it may cause severe complications in very young children, pregnant women, diabetics, people with respiratory disorders, older people, and those individuals with low immune responses.
Symptoms of Flu:
Flu can often be confused with the common cold as they share similar symptoms such as
Running or blocked nose
Cough
Sore throat
However, you can differentiate flu from the common cold with these symptoms
High temperature
Cold sweats and shivers
Headache
Aching joints and limbs
Fatigue, feeling exhausted
Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are also common.
Complications of flu include
Pneumonia
Bronchitis
Asthma flare-ups
Ear infection
Heart problems
Treatment of Flu
Flu is usually caused by a virus, so antibiotics cannot help, unless it leads to another illness caused by bacteria.
Antivirals for Flu
Doctors may prescribe antivirals, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza), in some circumstances.
FDA approved a new drug called baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza) for acute uncomplicated influenza, or flu in 2018.
People can receive this treatment if they:
are aged 12 years or over
have had symptoms for fewer than 48 hours
Possible side effects include diarrhea and bronchitis.
Pain relief medication for Flu
Pain relievers can alleviate some of the symptoms, such as a headache and body pains.
Home remedies for Flu
Individuals with flu should:
Stay at home
Avoid contact with other people where possible
Keep warm and rest
Consume plenty of liquids
Avoid alcohol
Stop smoking
Eat if possible
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