What is Flu (Influenza)?
Influenza (flu) is a contagious viral respiratory disease caused due to the influenza virus. Its symptoms are Fever, Headache, vomiting, body pains, etc.
It spreads through respiratory droplets when infected individuals
The flu season typically runs from April to September, with varying severity and duration. High-risk groups include young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
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Symptoms of Flu (Influenza)
The flu symptoms include:
When to see a doctor?
Most people with influenza can manage it at home and rarely require medical attention. Call your doctor if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms and feel you could get sick.
Causes of Flu (Influenza)
The flu is caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. When sick people cough, sneeze or talk, respiratory particles are released into the air and may infect the surrounding individuals. A person can also catch the flu by touching the lips, eyes, or nose with contaminated hands.
Risk Factors of Flu (Influenza)
The influenza risk factors are:
- Age: Seasonal influenza targets young children from six months to 5 years old and adults 65 years old or older.
- Weak immune system: The immune system is affected by HIV/AIDS, poor nutrition, smoking, alcoholism, chronic steroid use, organ transplants, cancer, etc. This may raise the chance of contracting the flu and make complications more likely.
- Chronic illnesses: Chronic ailments may increase the severity of influenza and lead to complications, including lung diseases,diabetes, heart disease, metabolic abnormalities, etc.
- Pregnancy: Pregnant women are more susceptible to influenza during the second and third trimesters.Also, women are more prone to experience influenza-related issues two to four weeks after giving birth.
Complications of Flu (Influenza)
The flu complications are as follows:
Prevention of Flu (Influenza)
- Get the annual flu vaccination, as it can reduce the severity of the infection and avoid hospitalisation.
- There are many vaccine options, including nasal spray and conventional jabs. The doctor could suggest a specific type of immunization depending on the health and risk factors.
Other prevention methods are:
- Follow healthy habits, such as washing your hands with soap and water.
- Use a disinfectant to clean surfaces and items like furniture and toys.
- Covering your mouth while coughing and sneezing will help reduce the risk of infection.
- Avoiding touching mouth, nose, or eyes with unwashed hands.
- Sleep for eight hours every night.
- Regular exercise helps boost the immune system.
Diagnosis of Flu (Influenza)
- Medical professionals will first assess the medical history and learn more about the symptoms to diagnose flu.
- There are various flu tests available.
- One of them is polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing which is more sensitive compared to other tests and may be able to determine the influenza strain.
Treatment of Flu (Influenza)
Many people can take care of the flu illness themselves. Painkillers can manage headaches or body aches. You need to rest more and drink plenty of fluids to recover from the infection. In case of a severe disease or a higher risk of complications, the doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs to treat the flu.
Do’s and Don’ts
Follow the below-given do’s and don'ts for influenza to prevent the disease and its severity.
Care at Medicover
At TIRUMALA Medicover Hospitals, we have the most trusted group of doctors and healthcare professionals skilled at providing the best medical treatment to patients while showing compassion and care. Our diagnostic department is equipped with the latest technology and equipment to conduct the necessary investigations for diagnosing Influenza. Our excellent doctors follow a multi-disciplinary approach to identifying and treating the condition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. These symptoms
typically come on suddenly and can vary in severity. If you experience these symptoms, it's important to
rest, stay hydrated, and seek medical advice if needed, especially if you are at high risk for
complications.
The flu typically lasts for about 1 to 2 weeks, although the duration can vary depending on the
individual and the severity of the illness. Rest, hydration, and symptom management can help alleviate
discomfort and speed up recovery.
The flu is caused by influenza viruses, while the common cold is typically caused by various other
viruses. Both spread through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.
Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications can help manage flu symptoms. Consulting a healthcare
professional for personalized advice is important, especially for high-risk individuals.
Annual vaccination and good hygiene practices, like handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick
individuals, can help prevent recurrent flu infections. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced
diet and regular exercise also supports a strong immune system.