Influenza

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–

• Age

Seasonal influenza tends to target young children and people over 65.

• Occupation

Health care workers and child care personnel

• Congested living areas
• Weak immune system

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  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—-

1. Pneumonia
2. Bronchitis
3. Sinus infections
4. Ear infections

Prevention–

1. Flu vaccination for all over the age of 6 months.
2. Thorough and frequent hand washing. Scrub hands vigorously for at least 15 seconds. Or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
3. Cover mouth and nose while sneezing/coughing
4. Avoid crowds.