What is Influenza?
Influenza, or "flu," is a common disease caused by a virus. It affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and sometimes even the lungs. Unlike the common cold, the flu can cause more severe symptoms and can make you feel very sick.
What Causes Influenza?
The flu is caused by influenza viruses that spread mainly through droplets in the air. When someone with the flu sneezes, coughs, or even talks, tiny droplets carrying the virus spread into the air. If you breathe in these droplets, you can catch the flu. The flu virus can also live on surfaces, so if you touch something with the virus and then touch your face, you could get infected.
Symptoms of Influenza :
The symptoms of influenza usually appear suddenly and can include:
 |
| Image credit - Google |
• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Fatigue (feeling very tired)
• Headache
• Chills
• In some cases, vomiting and diarrhea (this is more common in children)
How is Influenza Different from the Common Cold?
The flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Flu symptoms tend to be more severe than cold symptoms. A cold might make you feel run-down, but the flu can make you feel like you need to stay in bed for several days.
How to Avoid Getting Influenza :
There are some steps you can take to avoid getting the flu:
 |
| Image credit - Google |
1. Get a Flu Vaccine:
The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu shot every year. The flu virus changes each year, so you need a new vaccine every flu season.
 |
| Image credit - Google |
2. Wash Your Hands Regularly:
Washing your hands with soap and water can kill viruses on your hands.
 |
| Image credit - Google |
3. Cover Your Mouth and Nose:
When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow. This helps prevent spreading the virus to others.
 |
| Image credit - Google |
4. Stay Away from Sick People:
Try to avoid close contact with people who have the flu.
Treating Influenza :
If you do get the flu, here are some things that can help:
 |
| Image credit - Google |
1. Rest:
Rest is very important. Give your body time to recover.
2. Stay Hydrated:
Drink plenty of water, juices, or clear soups to avoid dehydration.
3. Take Fever Reducers and Pain Relievers:
Medicines like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help reduce fever and ease muscle pain.
4. Antiviral Medication:
In some cases, doctors may prescribe antiviral medication for the flu. This can help lessen symptoms and reduce the length of the illness if taken early.
When to See a Doctor ?
Most cases of the flu get better on their own. However, if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, or dizziness, or if symptoms get worse after a few days, you should see a doctor.