What is Influenza - Flu - Influenza is commonly called or known as 'the flu', it is a contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract.
Although the flu affects both sexes and all age groups, kids and senior citizens tend to get it the most. The illness even
has its own season, which is from November to April, with most of the cases occurring between late December and early March.
What causes Influenza - Flu - The Flu is caused bu the Influenza virus. Health professionals classify the virus as influenza type A and type B,
each of which includes strains. These strains are different from the original virus but retain some of it's
characteristics. The influenza virus changes often, so having flu caused by one strain does not give you full immunity to
other strains. This is why a different vaccine is necessary every year to help prevent infection. Influenza (Flu) is
easily spread by virus-infected droplets that are coughed or sneezed into the air, and by touching door handles and other items that have been handled by
others who are infected, the flu is very contagious.
Symptoms for Influenza - Flu
The flu generaly lasts a week or less, with the main course of symptoms being over in
a 3 day period. The symptoms of Influenza (Flu) are Fever, chills, headache, body or muscle aches, loss of appetite, tiredness, cough,
sore throat, runny nose, upset stomach, weakness, diarrhea. After 3 days, the fever and other symptoms may have disappeared, but a cough or
severe weakness may continue at times for a few more days. All symptoms are usually gone within a week or two. However, it's important to treat
the flu seriously, because it can lead to pneumonia or other complications, particularly in infants, senior citizens, and people with long-term
health problems. I seem to get the flu every year, and every year it seems to hit me worse than the year before. I also seem to get it towards the
end of February each year.
Treatment for Influenza - Flu
Once you get the flu there is not a lot you can do to get rid of it, except to wait
until it has run it's course. The best thing is to stay in bed with a warm blanket and rest as much as possible. Drink
plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration and weakness. And you may want to take Tylenol or Ibuprofen to relieve headache and
body aches. You should avoid giving Aspirin to children.
Prevention for Influenza - Flu
The best way to prevent Influenza - Flu, is to get the Flu shot, unless your allergic
to it. You should also try to avoide close contact with others that have it. Wash you hands and forearms often, espicaly
after using public restrooms, opening doors and drinking at public water fountains. Never share cups and eating utensils and
don't use other peoples tissues, touching the box is an easy way to pick up the flu bug. Stay home from work or school when you're sick with the
flu and rest.
Information on this web site is provided for informational purposes only. It is NOT a substitute for professional
medical services or advice.
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