Flu is a contagious viral illness caused by influenza viruses.
Influenza family is a group of
viruses ( A,B,C,D). It can affect the nose, throat, or sometimes lungs.
What are the symptoms of Flu?
Flu may present with
- Headache
- Fever
- Body aches
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Cough
- Throat pain
- Chills and sweats
- Vomiting diarrhea
- Shortness of breath
How Flu spreads?
sneezes or talks.
Air droplets with the influenza virus can infect a person within
one to two meters of range.
Who are at risk?
- Young children under age 5 and specifically those under 6 months.
- Old age person of age more than 65.
- Diabetic patients.
- Persons suffering from cancer or malignancy.
- Patients who are receiving chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or steroids.
- Patients who are suffering from chronic ailments ( liver, renal, or cardiac failure).
- Doctors and paramedical staff.
When to see a doctor?
Most people who suffer from flu usually get well on their own within a few days.
It is a self-limiting disease.
If you have severe symptoms or you have a pre-existing medical condition then
consult your doctor for further advice.
What is the treatment?
Always consult your doctor for treatment your doctor may give you symptomatic
treatment. Doctors usually prescribe antipyretics for fever and analgesics for body
aches. Doctors also advise their patients to take plenty of fluids. If symptoms are
severe antiviral treatment is also recommended.
How to prevent flu?
Annual influenza vaccination is the best way to prevention.Also spread can be prevented by taking some measures such as wearing a mask,
covering your mouth while coughing or sneezing, maintaining a distance of one meter,
washing your hands, cleaning workplaces, and avoiding crowds during periods of
endemics.
What are the complications?
- Pneumonia
- Ear infections
- Asthma flare-ups
- worsening of a pre-existing condition
- acute respiratory distress syndrome
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