The flu is a contagious infection of the nose, throat, and lungs caused by the influenza virus.
Classification
- Influenza A
Most Severe. Outbreak every 2-3 years
- Influenza B
Less severe. Affects children
- Influenza C
Mildest
Causes of influenza
- Age
Seasonal changes tend to target young children and people over 65.
- Occupation
Health care workers and child care personnel
- Congested living areas
- Weak immune system due to –
- Cancer treatments
- Anti-rejection drugs
- Corticosteroids
- HIV/AIDS
- Chronic illnesses
- Asthma
- Diabetes
- Heart problems
- Pregnancy( second and third trimesters)
- Breathing in droplets from coughs or sneezes
- Touching a surface (a faucet handle or phone) loaded with a virus and then transferring them to the eyes, nose or mouth.
Symptoms and signs
- Abrupt onset
- Body aches
- Chills
- Dizziness
- Dry, hacking cough
- Fever 102 -106 °F( lasting 1-last 5 days)
- Flushed face
- Headache
- Lack of energy
- Loss of appetite
- Nasal discharge
- Nausea
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Stuffy, congested nose
- Sweating
- Vomiting
- Worsening of underlying illness( asthma or heart failure)
Treatment
- Rest
Until the flu is fully resolved, especially if the illness has been severe.
- Fluids
Drink enough fluids so as not to become dehydrated.
- Medicines
Complications
- Pneumonia
- Bronchitis
- Sinus infections
- Ear infections
Prevention
- Flu vaccination for all over the age of 6 months.
- Thorough and frequent hand washing. Scrub your hands vigorously for at least 15 seconds. Or use alcohol-based hand sanitisers.
- Cover mouth and nose while sneezing/coughing
- Avoid crowds.