What is flu?
Fever, coughing, bodily pains, and other symptoms are some of the manifestations of the flu virus. The “seasonal” flu is the most prevalent strain. Seasonal flu comes in a variety of forms, such as “type A” and “type B.”
Viruses are the root cause of all influenza strains. “Influenza” is the official medical word for the flu.
What other flu strains exist?
In addition to the seasonal flu, there is also the “swine” flu, which broke out globally in 2009 and 2010, and the bird flu. Bird flu, commonly referred to as “avian flu,” is a severe strain of the influenza virus that was initially spread to birds.
What flu symptoms are most typical?
Each kind of influenza can result in:
- Fever (heart rate more than 100 bpm or 37.8 °C)
- Extreme fatigue
- Body pains or a headache
- Cough
- Weak throat
- Rough nose
- The flu symptoms can appear abruptly.
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Is it dangerous?
It is possible. The majority of people recover from the flu without any long-term complications.
However, some patients with the flu must visit a hospital. Some even pass away as a result of it. This is because pneumonia, a deadly lung infection, can be brought on by the flu. Therefore, it’s critical to avoid contracting the flu in the first place.
Those who are more likely to have severe flu symptoms include:
- Older than 65 years old
- Small children (under 5 years old, and especially under 2 years old)
- Expecting mothers
- People with specific other medical conditions
Speak to a doctor or nurse if you or your child is a member of one of these groups. They can assist you in determining whether you or your child requires treatment. In some circumstances, family members of a person with the flu may also require medication to aid in preventing their own infection.
Does the flu have a test?
Yes. Flu testing are available. Your doctor can typically determine if you have the flu based on your symptoms. However, in some circumstances, such as if you are at risk for developing other issues brought on by the flu, your doctor may perform a flu test.
How can I guard against the flu?
One can:
- Wash your hands with soap and water frequently. On the table are recommendations for washing your hands to stop the spread of disease
- Keep your distance from sick persons you know
- Every year, get the flu shot since some years the shot is more effective than others. However, even in years when it is less effective, it still contributes to the prevention of some flu infections. If you do contract the flu, it may also help prevent you from becoming seriously ill.
What must I do in the event of the flu?
If you suspect the flu, stay at home, get plenty of rest, and hydration. For aches and fever, you can also take acetaminophen.
Children under the age of 18 should not be given aspirin or aspirin-containing medications. Aspirin can lead to Reye syndrome, a dangerous condition that affects kids.
Most flu sufferers recover on their own in 1 to 2 weeks. However, you must contact your physician or nurse
If you:
- Have breathing issues or feel out of breath
- Feel pressure or pain in your chest or abdomen
- Feel a sudden dizziness
- Feel perplexed
- Have severe nausea
If your child experiences any of the following:
- rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
- begin to fade to blue or purple
- Do not consume enough fluids
- Will not awaken or communicate with you
- Are in such a state of distress that they do not want to be held
- You recover from the flu but soon become ill once more with a fever or cough.
- Have a rash and a fever
If you choose to visit a walk-in clinic or a hospital due to the flu, let someone know why you are there as soon as you get there. You can be asked to wear a mask or wait in a location where you are less likely to spread an infection by the staff.
Whether or if you visit a doctor or nurse, you should keep your child at home if they have the flu and stay home yourself. Till your temperature has subsided for at least 24 hours without the use of medication like acetaminophen, do not report to work or school. If you still cough and work around patients, like at a hospital or clinic, you might need to be at home longer. Additionally, whenever you cough or sneeze, always cover your mouth and nose with the inside of your elbow.
Is there a cure for the flu?
Antiviral medications are really available to those who have the flu. Some of the issues brought on by the flu can be avoided with the aid of these medications. Although not everyone with the flu requires antiviral medication, some do. If you require antiviral medication, your doctor or nurse will make that decision. The flu is not treatable by antibiotics.
What if I’m expecting?
Pregnant women should avoid the flu at all costs. It’s crucial to receive the flu shot if you’re expecting a child. Additionally, you should refrain from caring for someone who has the flu.
If any of the following apply to you and you are pregnant, call your doctor or nurse:
- You might have been around a sick person.
- You believe you may be developing the flu. The flu symptoms might swiftly worsen in expectant mothers. Even breathing difficulties or a woman’s or her baby’s death can result from the flu.
Because of this, it’s crucial that you consult a doctor or nurse as soon as you experience any of the aforementioned flu symptoms. If you have the flu and are pregnant, you will need antiviral medication.