What are the main symptoms of influenza. How does the flu virus spread. Who is at higher risk for flu complications. What are effective prevention methods against the flu. How is influenza diagnosed and treated. What are the potential complications of the flu. How does the flu differ from the common cold.

The Nature of Influenza: Understanding the Virus

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. These viruses are highly contagious and can lead to mild to severe illness, affecting millions of Americans each year. The flu’s impact can range from a few days of discomfort to life-threatening complications, particularly for vulnerable populations.

How does the flu virus spread? The primary transmission method is through respiratory droplets. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, they release tiny virus-laden droplets into the air. These droplets can then be inhaled by nearby individuals, leading to infection. Less commonly, the virus can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, though this route is not considered the main driver of transmission.

Types of Influenza Viruses

There are four types of influenza viruses: A, B, C, and D. Types A and B are responsible for the seasonal flu epidemics that occur each year. Type A viruses are further classified into subtypes based on two proteins on the viral surface: hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). This classification system gives rise to names like H1N1 or H3N2.

• Influenza A: Can infect humans and animals, often causing more severe illness
• Influenza B: Primarily affects humans and tends to cause milder illness than type A
• Influenza C: Causes mild respiratory illnesses and is not thought to cause epidemics
• Influenza D: Primarily affects cattle and is not known to infect humans

Recognizing Flu Symptoms: From Mild to Severe

Flu symptoms often appear suddenly and can range from mild to severe. While some individuals may experience only a few symptoms, others might be hit with the full spectrum of flu-related discomfort. Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to prompt treatment and potentially reduce the risk of complications.

Common Flu Symptoms

The most frequent symptoms of influenza include:

• Sudden onset of high fever (usually 100°F or higher)
• Headache
• Muscle aches and joint pain
• Dry cough
• Chills and sweats
• Sore throat
• Nasal congestion and runny nose
• Fatigue and weakness

Is vomiting a common symptom of the flu? While not as prevalent as respiratory symptoms, some people, especially children, may experience gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. However, these symptoms are generally not the primary indicators of influenza in adults.

Flu Symptoms in Different Age Groups

The presentation of flu symptoms can vary depending on age:

1. Infants and young children: May have higher fevers, more pronounced gastrointestinal symptoms, and a higher risk of febrile seizures
2. School-age children and adolescents: Often experience symptoms similar to adults but may have higher fevers (103°F to 105°F)
3. Adults: Typically present with the classic symptom profile mentioned above
4. Elderly: May have milder symptoms but are at higher risk for complications

Flu vs. Common Cold: Spotting the Differences

Distinguishing between the flu and a common cold can be challenging, as both are respiratory illnesses with overlapping symptoms. However, there are key differences that can help in identification.

Characteristic Differences

• Onset: Flu symptoms typically come on suddenly, while cold symptoms develop gradually
• Severity: Flu symptoms are generally more severe than cold symptoms
• Fever: High fever is common with the flu but rare with a cold
• Body aches: More severe and common in flu cases
• Fatigue: Often more pronounced and longer-lasting with the flu
• Complications: The flu is more likely to lead to serious health complications

Can a cold turn into the flu? No, a cold cannot turn into the flu. They are caused by different viruses. However, having a cold can weaken your immune system, potentially making you more susceptible to catching the flu if exposed.

High-Risk Groups: Who’s Most Vulnerable to Flu Complications?

While anyone can contract the flu, certain groups are at higher risk for developing serious complications. These individuals should be particularly vigilant about prevention and seek prompt medical attention if flu symptoms develop.

Populations at Increased Risk

• Adults 65 years and older
• Children younger than 5 years, especially those under 2
• Pregnant women and women up to two weeks postpartum
• Residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities
• People with chronic medical conditions, such as:
  • Asthma and other respiratory diseases
  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • Kidney or liver disorders
  • Obesity
  • Weakened immune systems

Why are these groups at higher risk? These populations often have weaker immune systems or underlying health conditions that make it harder for their bodies to fight off the flu virus. This can lead to more severe symptoms and a higher likelihood of developing complications.

Potential Complications: When Flu Becomes Dangerous

While many people recover from the flu without significant issues, some may develop serious complications. These complications can be life-threatening and often require immediate medical attention.

Common Flu Complications

• Pneumonia: A serious lung infection that can be bacterial or viral
• Myocarditis: Inflammation of the heart muscle
• Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain
• Myositis: Inflammation of muscle tissues
• Multi-organ failure: Dysfunction of two or more organ systems
• Sepsis: A life-threatening response to infection
• Worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure or asthma

How quickly can flu complications develop? Complications can arise rapidly, sometimes within days of the onset of flu symptoms. This is why it’s crucial for high-risk individuals to seek medical attention promptly if they suspect they have the flu.

Diagnosis and Treatment: Navigating Flu Care

Accurate diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial in managing influenza and preventing complications. Healthcare providers use a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests to confirm flu cases and determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

Diagnostic Methods

Several tests are available for diagnosing the flu:

• Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests (RIDTs): Provide results in 15-20 minutes but may be less accurate
• Rapid Molecular Assays: More accurate than RIDTs, with results available in 15-30 minutes
• RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction): Highly accurate but may take several hours for results
• Viral Culture: Can take several days but is useful for identifying specific virus strains

How are flu tests performed? Most flu tests involve a nasal or throat swab. The sample is then analyzed for the presence of influenza viral antigens or genetic material.

Treatment Approaches

Treatment for the flu typically focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. The approach may include:

1. Antiviral Medications: Drugs like oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), and baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza) can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if started early
2. Symptomatic Relief: Over-the-counter medications to manage fever, pain, and congestion
3. Rest and Hydration: Essential for supporting the body’s natural healing processes
4. Monitoring: Close observation for signs of worsening symptoms or complications, especially in high-risk individuals

When should antiviral medications be started? For maximum effectiveness, antiviral drugs should ideally be started within 48 hours of symptom onset. However, they may still provide benefit when started later, especially in severe cases or for high-risk patients.

Prevention Strategies: Keeping the Flu at Bay

Preventing the flu is a multi-faceted approach that combines vaccination, good hygiene practices, and lifestyle choices. By implementing these strategies, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of contracting and spreading the influenza virus.

Vaccination: The First Line of Defense

Annual flu vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza and its complications. The vaccine is updated each year to protect against the virus strains expected to be most prevalent during the upcoming flu season.

• Types of Flu Vaccines:
  • Inactivated Influenza Vaccine (IIV)
  • Recombinant Influenza Vaccine (RIV)
  • Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV)
• Timing: Ideally, get vaccinated by the end of October, before flu season peaks
• Effectiveness: While not 100% effective, vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization, and death

Who should get the flu vaccine? The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions. It’s particularly important for high-risk groups and their close contacts.

Hygiene and Lifestyle Practices

In addition to vaccination, several everyday practices can help prevent the spread of flu:

1. Hand Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
2. Respiratory Etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
3. Avoid Close Contact: Maintain distance from people who are sick
4. Stay Home When Sick: Prevent spreading the virus to others
5. Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean frequently touched surfaces
6. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get adequate sleep to support immune function

How long should you stay home with the flu? Generally, you should stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever has gone down without the use of fever-reducing medications. This helps prevent spreading the virus to others.

The Global Impact of Influenza: Beyond Individual Health

The influence of influenza extends far beyond individual health concerns, affecting societies and economies on a global scale. Understanding the broader impact of the flu can provide context for the importance of prevention and control measures.

Economic Burden

The flu imposes significant economic costs through various channels:

• Direct Medical Costs: Expenses related to medical care, hospitalizations, and medications
• Indirect Costs: Lost productivity due to workplace absenteeism and reduced efficiency
• Societal Costs: Strain on healthcare systems and public health resources

What is the estimated annual economic burden of influenza? In the United States alone, annual economic losses due to influenza are estimated to be in the tens of billions of dollars, highlighting the substantial financial impact of the disease.

Public Health Challenges

The flu presents ongoing challenges for public health systems worldwide:

1. Seasonal Epidemics: Annual flu outbreaks strain healthcare resources and require ongoing surveillance and response
2. Pandemic Potential: The ability of influenza viruses to undergo antigenic shift poses a constant threat of global pandemics
3. Vaccine Development: The need for annual vaccine updates due to viral mutations demands continuous research and production efforts
4. Health Disparities: Influenza can exacerbate existing health inequalities, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations

How do public health agencies prepare for flu seasons? Public health organizations engage in year-round activities including virus surveillance, vaccine strain selection, public education campaigns, and coordination with healthcare providers to prepare for and respond to influenza seasons.

Global Collaboration and Research

The fight against influenza requires international cooperation and ongoing scientific research:

• Global Surveillance Networks: Monitoring influenza activity and viral evolution worldwide
• Vaccine Research: Efforts to develop more effective and broadly protective flu vaccines
• Antiviral Development: Ongoing work to improve existing antivirals and discover new treatment options
• One Health Approach: Recognizing the interconnection between human, animal, and environmental health in addressing influenza threats

What role does the World Health Organization play in global flu prevention? The WHO coordinates the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS), which monitors influenza viruses circulating worldwide and provides recommendations for vaccine composition twice a year.

In conclusion, influenza remains a significant global health challenge, impacting individuals, communities, and economies worldwide. By understanding the nature of the virus, recognizing symptoms, implementing prevention strategies, and supporting global health initiatives, we can collectively work to reduce the burden of this perennial threat. As research continues and our understanding evolves, the hope is that more effective prevention and treatment options will emerge, further mitigating the impact of influenza on global health.

Flu | Flu Symptoms | Stomach Flu | Influenza

What is the flu?

The flu, also called influenza, is a respiratory infection caused by viruses. Each year, millions of Americans get sick with the flu. Sometimes it causes mild illness. But it can also be serious or even deadly, especially for people over 65, newborn babies, and people with certain chronic illnesses.

What causes the flu?

The flu is caused by flu viruses that spread from person to person. When someone with the flu coughs, sneezes, or talks, they spray tiny droplets. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Less often, a person may get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

Symptoms of the flu come on suddenly and may include

Some people may also have vomiting and diarrhea. This is more common in children.

Sometimes people have trouble figuring out whether they have a cold or the flu. There are differences between them. The symptoms of a cold usually come on more slowly and are less severe than symptoms of the flu. Colds rarely cause a fever or headaches.

Sometimes people say that they have a “flu” when they really have something else. For example, “stomach flu” isn’t the flu; it’s gastroenteritis.

What other problems can the flu cause?

Some people who get the flu will develop complications. Some of these complications can be serious or even life-threatening. They include

The flu also can make chronic health problems worse. For example, people with asthma may have asthma attacks while they have flu.

Certain people are more likely to have complications from the flu, including

• Adults 65 and older
• Pregnant women
• Children younger than 5
• People with certain chronic health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease

How is the flu diagnosed?

To diagnose the flu, health care providers will first do a medical history and ask about your symptoms. There are several tests for the flu. For the tests, your provider will swipe the inside of your nose or the back of your throat with a swab. Then the swab will be tested for the flu virus.

Some tests are quick and give results in 15-20 minutes. But these tests are not as accurate as other flu tests. These other tests can give you the results in one hour or several hours.

What are the treatments for the flu?

Most people with the flu recover on their own without medical care. People with mild cases of the flu should stay home and avoid contact with others, except to get medical care.

But if you have symptoms of flu and are in a high risk group or are very sick or worried about your illness, contact your health care provider. You might need antiviral medicines to treat your flu. Antiviral medicines can make the illness milder and shorten the time you are sick. They also can prevent serious flu complications. They usually work best when you start taking them within 2 days of getting sick.

Can the flu be prevented?

The best way to prevent the flu is to get flu vaccine every year. But it’s also important to have good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands often. This can help stop the spread of germs and prevent the flu.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Flu Symptoms, Causes, and Risk Factors

We all are at risk for getting and spreading the flu. Having the flu may keep you home from work or school, not to mention making you feel pretty miserable for a week or two. If you have asthma or other lung diseases, you are at higher risk of developing complications from the flu.

What Are the Symptoms of Influenza?

Flu symptoms often appear suddenly. People at higher risk of complications, such as those with chronic lung disease, should seek prompt medical attention. Treatment may include antiviral medicine which can reduce symptoms if started within a day or two of getting sick.

Symptoms of influenza can include:

• Sudden onset of high fever
• Headache, muscle aches and joint pain
• Cough (usually dry)
• Chills
• Sore throat
• Nasal congestion and runny nose
• Fatigue
• Stomach symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea may occur but are more common in children than adults.

Most people recover from the flu within one or two weeks, but others, especially the elderly, may feel weak for a long time even after other symptoms go away.

Flu symptoms in children

Flu symptoms in school-age children and adolescents are similar to those in adults. Children tend to have higher temperatures than adults, ranging from 103°F to 105°F. Flu in preschool children and infants is hard to pinpoint since its symptoms are so similar to infections caused by other viruses.

If the symptoms mentioned above are present and the flu is circulating in your area, please contact a healthcare provider immediately.

What Causes the Flu?

The flu is caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. These viruses spread when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk, sending droplets with the virus into the air and potentially into the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. You can also get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching your own mouth, eyes or nose.

You can spread the flu before you know you are sick, beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick. Some people, especially young children and people with weakened immune systems, might be able to infect others for an even longer time.

Flu Risk Factors

Influenza is a very serious illness for anyone at high risk. Certain diseases that place people at high risk include:

• chronic lung diseases such as asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis, or cystic fibrosis
• heart disease
• chronic kidney disease
• diabetes or other chronic metabolic disorder
• morbid obesity
• severe anemia (including sickle cell anemia)
• diseases (HIV, AIDS) or treatments (steroids, chemotherapy) that suppress immunity
• liver disorders
• children and adolescents who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy

What Is the Difference Between Cold and Flu? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Favorite Organizations for Essential Information

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

ACOG’s Immunization for Women program provides patients, including those who are pregnant, with up-to-date recommendations and guidelines on treating seasonal influenza and other vaccine-preventable diseases. This trusted source also provides a searchable ob-gyn directory.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The CDC’s website presents weekly updates on flu activity nationwide. The site details how the flu may be spreading in each state and which strains of the virus are most prominent. It also contains useful guidelines for the most current treatments and vaccinations.

National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID)

Founded in 1973, the NFID is a nonprofit dedicated to educating the public and healthcare providers about infectious diseases. Its influenza web page provides basic information about the flu and links to sections about influenza in vulnerable segments of the population, such as children and older adults.

State Health Departments

Thanks to this search function on the CDC’s website, you can locate your state health department, which can then help you find direct access to your county’s health department. Your local health department will likely provide updated information on flu activity in your area, as well as information on how to access vaccinations.

World Health Organization (WHO)

The WHO’s global influenza website provides worldwide surveillance information on flu outbreaks and what prevention efforts are taking place. It also provides information from its conferences regarding future strategies to combat the flu.

Best Flu Vaccination Information

CDC — Vaccine Safety

The CDC’s flu vaccine page provides up-to-date information on approved influenza vaccines, along with potential side effects.

National Vaccine Information Center

This independent nonprofit provides extensive information on vaccine science and includes research on the effectiveness of specific vaccines.

Vaccines.gov

This U.S. Department of Health and Human Services site educates the public on various vaccine-preventable illnesses, including influenza. The flu section of the site includes basic information about the flu vaccine and a search tool to help you find places to get vaccinated in your area.

Best Information for Colds

Mayo Clinic

This website offers information that will help you determine whether your symptoms are related to a cold and when you need to see a doctor, and offers preventive tips that may help you avoid getting sick.

National Library of Medicine

The common cold section of the MedlinePlus website provides comprehensive information on the causes and symptoms of the common cold, as well as links to information on how to determine whether you are suffering from a cold, the flu, or an allergy. It also includes information on potential treatments and therapies.

Best Resources for Parents

Healthy Children

This American Academy of Pediatrics site focuses on how to identify flu symptoms in your children, the potential treatments, and preventive tips.

KidsHealth — Flu

This website’s flu section offers basic educational and preventive information on keeping your family healthy and how to treat a child’s flu symptoms.

KidsHealth — Colds

The KidsHealth site also has a page dedicated to providing general information on common cold treatments for kids and potential complications.

Best Apps for Combating the Flu

FluView

The CDC’s FluView app allows you to track flu activity by region, which can also be helpful if you plan on traveling.

Zocdoc

Type in your location, your reason for seeing a doctor, and your insurance carrier and Zocdoc will help you book a doctor’s appointment in your area.

Find more apps to help you fight the flu in our article, 7 Apps to Help You Fight the Flu.

Influenza | Johns Hopkins Medicine

The flu is caused by a virus. Viruses are generally passed from person to person through the air when an infected person sneezes or coughs.

But the virus can also live for a short time on objects like doorknobs, pens, pencils, keyboards, phones, and cups or eating utensils. So you can also get the flu by touching something that has been recently handled by someone infected with the virus and then touching your own mouth, nose, or eyes.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

Each person may experience symptoms differently. The flu is called a respiratory disease, but it can affect your entire body. People usually become very sick with several, or all, of the following symptoms:

• Cough, often becoming severe

• Extreme exhaustion

• Fatigue for several weeks

• Headache

• High fever

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Severe aches and pains

• Sneezing at times

• Sometimes a sore throat

• Vomiting and diarrhea

Fever and body aches usually last for 3 to 5 days, but cough and fatigue may last for 2 weeks or more.

The symptoms of the flu may look like other medical problems. Always talk your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How is the flu diagnosed?

The flu is diagnosed based on your symptoms. Lab tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis, if necessary.

How is the flu treated?

Specific treatment for the flu will be determined by your healthcare provider based on:

• Your age, overall health, and medical history

• Extent and type of flu, and severity of symptoms

• How long you’ve had symptoms

• Your tolerance for specific medicines, procedures, or therapies

• Expectations for the course of the disease

• Your opinion or preference

The goal of treatment for the flu is to help prevent or decrease the severity of symptoms. Treatment may include:

• Antiviral medicines. They can reduce how long you’ll have the flu, but they can’t cure it. They have to be started within the first 2 days of the illness. These medicines do have some side effects, such as nervousness, lightheadedness, or nausea. These medicines are prescribed by a doctor.

• Medicines. There are medicines for congestion and nasal discharge. You can also take medicine to relieve aches and fever. Do not give aspirin to children with fever. The drug of choice for children is acetaminophen.

• Rest. Bed rest and increased intake of fluids.

Talk with your healthcare provider for more information.

What are the complications of the flu?

The most common complication of the flu is pneumonia. It can also cause serious muscle and central nervous system complications. Of those who get the flu, between 3,000 and 49,000 will die from it or from complications. Most of these deaths happen in people ages 65 and older.

Can the flu be prevented?

A new flu vaccine is made each fall. Everyone ages 6 months and older should get a flu shot each year. It is usually recommended for specific groups of people, as well as for anyone who wants to avoid having the flu.

The flu shot is safe. The CDC and the FDA closely watch vaccine safety. Hundreds of millions of flu vaccines have been safely given across the country for decades.

The flu shot can’t give you the flu. The most common side effects from a flu shot are:

If you have them at all, these side effects are usually mild and last a short time.

The effectiveness of the vaccine varies from one person to another. It can depend on factors such as age and overall health.

The following may also be helpful for preventing the flu:

• When possible, avoid or limit contact with sick people.

• Wash your hands frequently to reduce the risk of infection.

• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing to limit spread of the virus.

The flu causes complications that may develop into a more serious disease or become dangerous to some people. This includes older adults and those with chronic medical problems. Always talk with your healthcare provider to find out if you should receive the flu shot.

Although the flu shot is safe, some people should NOT be vaccinated. These include:

• People who are allergic to eggs

• People who have had a severe reaction in the past after getting the flu shot

• People who are sick with a fever (these people should get vaccinated after they have recovered)

• Babies who are age 6 months old or younger

• People who have a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome, a severe paralyzing illness, after getting the flu shot

The CDC recommends getting the flu shot every year, as soon as it becomes available in your community. Flu season can begin as early as October and most commonly peaks in the U.S. in January or February, but flu seasons are unpredictable. The flu shot takes 1 to 2 weeks to become effective.

The CDC recommends that travelers have the flu vaccine at least 2 weeks before planned travel to allow time to develop immunity. Talk with your healthcare provider for more information.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

For most people, the flu can be treated at home without treatment from your healthcare provider. However, if your condition or situation makes you more susceptible to complications from the flu, tell your healthcare provider when you suspect you have the flu. If your symptoms get worse or you have new symptoms, let your healthcare provider know.

Key points about the flu

• The flu is an easily spread viral respiratory tract infection.

• The flu is caused by viruses that are generally passed from person to person through the air.

• The flu is treated with bedrest, increased fluid intake, and medicines to treat discomfort and fever

• Antiviral medicines taken within the first 2 days of illness can reduce the length and severity of the disease but does not cure it.

• Getting the flu shot every year is the best prevention.

Continue Reading

All About the Flu and How to Prevent It

Can the flu be prevented?

Getting a flu shot every year can help you stay healthy. A flu shot contains the flu vaccine, which could keep you from getting the flu. There are special flu shots designed specifically for people age 65 and older. Medicare will pay for the shot, and so will many private health insurance plans.

A flu shot won’t keep everyone healthy. But, getting the flu shot every year can mean that if you do get the flu, you might have only a mild case.

Who should get a flu shot?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), part of the federal government, says that people age 50 and older should get a flu shot every year. Anyone who lives with or takes care of people age 50 and older should also have a flu shot every year.

When should I get my flu shot?

Most people get the flu between December and March. That’s why that time is called the flu season. The timeframe can vary each year. It takes at least two weeks for your shot to start working, so try to get your flu shot by the end of October. Don’t worry if you can’t get your flu shot before the flu season starts. The shot can help keep you healthy no matter when you get it.

COVID-19 is a serious respiratory illness that can cause difficulty in breathing, fever, chills, loss of taste or smell, and many other symptoms. The COVID-19 vaccine can protect you from getting sick and help prevent it from spreading to others. You can get a COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines, such as a shingles or flu vaccine, at the same visit. You no longer need to wait 14 days between vaccinations. To learn more, check out CDC guidelines for vaccines.

Where can I get a flu shot?

You can get a flu shot at your doctor’s office or from your local health department. Sometimes grocery or drug stores offer flu shots. The vaccine is the same wherever you receive it. Use the vaccine finder to find a vaccine in your area.

Why do you need a flu shot every year?

You need a flu shot every year for two reasons. First, flu viruses change. Each year’s virus may be just a little different. If the virus changes, the vaccine used in the flu shot is changed. Second, the protection you get from a flu shot lessens with time, especially in older people. So, you should get the shot every fall to do your best to stay protected from the flu.

Are there side effects?

Most people have no problem with a flu shot. In fact, for most people, the flu is far more dangerous than the flu shot.

When you get the flu shot, your arm might be sore, red, or a bit swollen. These side effects may start shortly after getting the shot and can last up to two days. They should not get in the way of your daily activities. A few people do have a headache or a low-grade fever for about a day after they get the shot. The flu shot cannot cause you to get the flu.

If you are allergic to eggs, you can usually get the flu shot. However, if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to a flu shot, you should not get a new flu shot.

It is important to check with your doctor when you first get the flu. Also, call your doctor if:

• Your fever goes away and then comes back; you may have a more dangerous infection
• You start having breathing or heart problems or other serious health problems
• You feel sick and don’t seem to be getting better
• You have a cough that begins to make thick mucus

What can I do if I get the flu?

If you get the flu, there are things you can do to feel better. First, call your doctor to see if there are medicines that can help. Remind him or her if you are taking drugs to fight cancer or other medicines that make it hard for your body to fight illness. There are prescription drugs, called antivirals, that are used to treat people with the flu. If you take them within 48 hours after the flu begins, these drugs can make you feel better more quickly. Antibiotics do not help you get over the flu. They are sometimes prescribed to help you get over a secondary infection if it is caused by bacteria. Bacteria are a different type of germ than viruses.

Antivirals can also be used to prevent flu. If you hear that there is a flu outbreak in your area, check with your doctor. He or she could prescribe an antiviral that might protect you. Prevention is key. The first choice for preventing the flu is a flu shot.

If you are sick, try to rest in bed and drink plenty of fluids, like juice and water but not alcohol. Medicine such as acetaminophen can bring down your fever, which might help with the aches and pains. It is important not to smoke if you are sick with the flu. It is a respiratory illness that can infect your lungs, as well as your nasal passages. These same areas are also bothered by smoking. Take it easy as much as you can until you are well.

What about the “bird flu?”

Sometimes a new, different kind of flu virus appears. You may have heard about the avian or bird flu. This flu is an example of how changes in a flu virus might lead to serious illness. However, there is some good news about bird flu. It is rare in people. In most cases, the bird flu has not passed from one person to another, and so, it might not become widespread in humans. But this could change over time. Scientists are working on new vaccines that can help protect people from bird flu. Right now, having seasonal flu does not build your body’s protection against bird flu.

Things to remember about the flu

• The flu can be dangerous for older people.
• The flu can be prevented.
• Older people need a flu shot every year.
• Medicare pays for the flu shot.
• The flu shot is safe.

The flu, caused by the influenza viruses, and COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, are similar respiratory illnesses, but COVID-19 causes more serious illnesses and spreads more easily than the flu. It may be hard to tell the difference between the two viruses because the symptoms are similar. It is important to make an appointment with your health care provider as soon as you feel symptoms, so you can take the certain precautions. To learn more about the differences between the flu and COVID-19, visit the CDC.

For more information about the flu

Flu – Symptoms and diagnosis

Flu (influenza) is a severe infection caused by a virus. The flu virus infects your lungs and upper airways. 

Flu is unpredictable. If you are young and healthy, you will usually feel unwell for a week but, you will not need to see your GP. Most flu can be treated at home.

Antibiotics do not work on flu. Getting lots of rest and drinking plenty of liquids will make you feel better.

Most people who think they have the flu usually just have a cold.

The real flu tends to happen during the winter. It usually spreads between October and April.

Some people are at risk of the serious complications of flu.

People at risk of complications include:

• people aged 65 and over
• pregnant women
• people with a long term medical condition
• are a child aged 2 to 12

Read more about flu vaccine for children aged 2 to 12

You can see a list of other at-risk groups here.

If you have flu and you are at risk of the complications of flu, you should contact your GP. You may need special anti-viral medicines. These work best if started within 48 hours of flu symptoms.

Symptoms

Flu symptoms come on very quickly and you get  muscle aches and a high fever. Headache is very common. You will feel extremely weak and may find it hard to even get out of bed. After a few days, you may develop a cough. 

Flu symptoms can also include:

• sore throat
• difficulty sleeping
• loss of appetite
• diarrhoea or tummy pain
• nausea and vomiting

The symptoms are similar for children. But they can also get pain in their ear and may be less active than usual.

Diagnosis

It is useful to know the difference between a cold and the flu.

Flu symptoms:

• come on suddenly
• start with a fever, muscle aches, headache, weakness and fatigue

COVID-19 symptoms:

Symptoms of COVID-19 range from mild to severe.

Cold symptoms:

• usually come on gradually
• start with a sore throat and a blocked or a runny nose.

Symptoms of a cold are generally mild compared to flu.

Complications

For most people, flu is just a bad experience. But for others, it can lead to more serious illness. Some complications of flu can be life threatening.

If you are aged 65 years or older, pregnant, or if you have a long term medical condition are on medication, you have an increased risk of serious complications from the flu. You may need special anti-viral medicines. These work best if started within 48 hours of flu symptoms.

The most common complication is pneumonia. Other complications include bronchitis and ear infections.

Flu can also worsen existing conditions such as:

• asthma
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• heart failure

Flu Symptoms, Duration, Contagious Period, Flu Shot Side Effects, Treatment & COVID-19

Demicheli, V., T. Jefferson, L.A. Al-Ansary, E. Ferroni, A. Rivetti, and C. Di Pietrantonj. “Vaccines for Preventing Influenza in Healthy Adults.” Cochrane Database Syst Rev 13.3 March 2014: CD001269.

Grohskopf, L.A., L.Z. Sokolow, K.R. Broder, et al. “Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2018-19 Influenza Season. ” MMWR 67.3 Aug. 24, 2018: 1-20.

Lambert, L., and Fauci, A. “Influenza Vaccines for the Future.” New Eng. J. Med. 361.21 (2010): 2036-2044.

Monto, A.S., Ohmit, S.E., Petrie, J.G., Johnson, E., Truscon, R., Teich, E., Rotthoff, J., Boulton, M., Victor, J.C. “Comparative Efficacy of Inactivated and Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccines.” N Engl J Med 361 Sept. 24, 2009: 1260.

Nguyen, H. “Influenza.” Medscape.com. Aug. 22, 2016. <http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/219557-overview>.

Perez-Padilla, R., de la Rosa-Zamboni, D., Ponce de Leon, S.P., Hernandez, M., Quinones-Falconi, F., Bautista, E., Ramirez-Venegas, A., Rojas-Serrano, J., Ormsby, C.E., Corrales, A., Higuera, A., Mondragon, E., Cordova-Villalobos, J.A. “Pneumonia and Respiratory Failure from Swine-Origin Influenza A (h2N1) in Mexico.”
N Engl J Med 361 Aug. 13, 2009: 680.

Switzerland. World Health Organization. “Cumulative number of confirmed human cases for avian influenza A(H5N1) reported to WHO, 2003-2014. ” Jan. 24, 2014. <http://www.who.int/influenza/human_animal_interface/EN_GIP_20140124CumulativeNumberH5N1cases.pdf?ua=1>.

Switzerland. World Health Organization. “Global Influenza Strategy 2019-2030.” March 11, 2019. <?https://www.who.int/influenza/en/>.?

United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Estimating Seasonal Influenza-Associated Deaths in the U.S.” Dec. 9, 2016.
<https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/us_flu-related_deaths.htm>.

United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “FluView Interactive.” Apr. 21, 2017. <https://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/fluviewinteractive.htm>.

United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Influenza (Flu).” Nov. 10, 2016. <https://www.cdc.gov/flu/>.

United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Summary: ‘Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) — United States, 2020-21’. ” <https://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/acip/summary/summary-recommendations.htm>.

United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Seasonal Influenza (Flu): Influenza Antiviral Medications: Summary for Clinicians.” Sept. 4, 2014.
<http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/antivirals/summary-clinicians.htm>.

United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Seasonal Influenza (Flu):
Use of Antivirals.” Sept. 1, 2011. <http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/antivirals/antiviral-use-influenza.htm>.

United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “2011-2012 Trivalent Influenza Vaccine Data From the U.S. Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS).” <http://vaers.hhs.gov/resources/SeasonalFluSummary_2011-2012.pdf>.

United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “2009 h2N1 Flu (Swine Flu).” Oct. 12, 2009. <http://www.cdc.gov/h2N1FLU/>.

United States. Flu.gov. “H5N1 Avian Flu (H5N1 Bird Flu). ” <http://www.flu.gov/about_the_flu/h5n1/>.

90,000 In the branch of the Borovsk poultry farm, where the bird flu was raging, a number of gross violations were revealed

https://www.znak.com/2021-11-11/v_filiale_borovskoy_pticefabriki_gde_busheval_ptichiy_gripp_vyyavili_ryn2_grubyh poultry keeping more than 9000r. The Golyshmanov branch of the Borovskaya poultry farm, which, we recall, lost 4.3 million chickens and 9 million eggs due to an outbreak of bird flu. Violations were found during an unscheduled inspection in October this year.

Rosselkhoznadzor

According to the supervisory authority, at the entrance to the poultry farm near the disinfection barrier there is an asphalt road without disinfection barriers and disinfection installations. The passage to the territory of the poultry farm can be carried out bypassing the disinfection barrier. The network of on-farm roads of the enterprise has an intersection; live birds, biological waste and droppings are transported along the same road; the territory of the poultry farm is not divided into zones, fencing is partially absent. For the transportation of biological waste, transport with an open body is used, which is also a violation.There are no windows on the disinfection barrier at the back of the poultry farm, which does not ensure its operation at subzero temperatures. On the territory of the enterprise, the presence of synanthropic birds (pigeons) and so on was recorded.

Rosselkhoznadzor

Following the results of the audit, two administrative cases were initiated under Part 1 of Article 10.6 of the Administrative Code of the Russian Federation in relation to a legal entity and under Part 3 of Article 10.8 of the Administrative Code of the Russian Federation against an official. Administrative penalties were imposed in the form of a fine and a warning.

Rosselkhoznadzor

Social tension is growing at the Borovsk poultry farm.Employees will be cut wages

Recall, on October 13, in the Borovsk poultry farm near Tyumen, belonging to the Tyumen region, an outbreak of bird flu was identified. Because of him, at an enterprise that produces more than 1 billion chicken eggs per year, it was necessary to destroy all the livestock of chickens – this is more than 4.3 million individuals. The residents of Tyumen have been complaining about the stench from the work of the landfill for the last two weeks, Rospotrebnadzor found excess sulfur dioxide in the air in the eastern part of the city. But, according to Cheymetov, veterinarians do not allow to take chickens to another place: otherwise there was a high risk of the spread of bird flu throughout the Tyumen region.

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Rospotrebnadzor: almost 30 percent of Russians were vaccinated against influenza

https://ria.ru/20211109/gripp-1758151406.html

Rospotrebnadzor: almost 30 percent of Russians were vaccinated against influenza

Rospotrebnadzor: almost 30 percent Russians were vaccinated against influenza – RIA Novosti, 09.11.2021

Rospotrebnadzor: almost 30 percent of Russians were vaccinated against influenza

More than 40 million people were vaccinated against influenza in Russia, which is 29% of the population, according to the Rospotrebnadzor website. RIA Novosti, 09.11.2021

2021-11-09T03: 30

2021-11-09T03: 30

2021-11-09T03: 30

Society

Influenza

Moscow

Federal Service for Supervision in the Sphere consumer protection and human well-being (rospotrebnadzor)

health

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MOSCOW, November 9 – RIA Novosti. More than 40 million people were vaccinated against influenza in Russia, which is 29% of the population, according to the Rospotrebnadzor website. In terms of the total population, the epidemic thresholds for influenza and SARS are exceeded in 37 regions of the Russian Federation. It is added that the incidence is mainly due to the circulation of respiratory viruses of non-influenza etiology, while “in the general structure of the detected respiratory viruses, there is an increase in the proportion of influenza viruses. “

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Rospotrebnadzor: almost 30 percent of Russians were vaccinated against influenza

90,000 What is the difference between influenza and others viral infections?

What is flu?

Influenza is an extremely contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.The flu is most common in winter and early spring.

What is ARVI?

ARVI is a group of acute respiratory viral infections that combine respiratory syncytial infection, rhinovirus and adenovirus infections and other upper respiratory tract infections.

What is the difference between SARS and influenza?

Influenza and ARVI viruses are transmitted from person to person mainly by airborne droplets, and the contact route of infection is not excluded. The disease usually affects large groups of people who spend time in close contact, such as kindergartens, schools, student dormitories, military barracks, offices, and nursing homes.

SARS and influenza are contagious viral infections of the respiratory tract. While the symptoms may be similar, the flu is much more dangerous.

Nasal congestion, sore throat and sneezing are common symptoms of acute respiratory viral infections.SARS and flu can cause coughs, headaches, and weakness. However, with the flu, a high fever persists for several days, body aches, fatigue and weakness are more pronounced. Flu symptoms tend to come on suddenly.

SARS, in contrast to the flu, can begin with symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, sore throat, the flu begins with a sharp rise in temperature to high numbers.

Usually complications from SARS are relatively minor, but a case of influenza can lead to life-threatening complications, the most common of which is pneumonia.

Who is susceptible to complications from influenza?

Anyone can get the flu.

Children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease and HIV are at greatest risk for complications from influenza.

More than 100 types of viruses are known to cause acute respiratory infections, and new strains of influenza appear every few years.Since all of these diseases are viral, antibiotics cannot fight a cold or flu. Antibiotics are only used to treat bacterial infections.

There are antiviral drugs that really work against the influenza virus, but, unfortunately, there are no drugs that can overcome the rest of ARVI.

Antibiotics can be useful only if there is a secondary bacterial infection as a complication of the underlying disease and these drugs are used only as directed by a doctor.

About prevention:

Influenza infection can be prevented by vaccination, which is carried out in the pre-epidemic period.

Prevention of other respiratory viral infections is to observe the rules of personal hygiene.

Flu symptoms requiring immediate medical attention:

for a child:

• Rapid breathing or other breathing problems
• Severe pallor or cyanosis of the skin
• Refuses to drink
• Doesn’t wake up for a long time
• Irritable, refuses to contact
• Symptoms of viral infection appear suddenly after improvement
• Fever with rash

in adults:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest or abdominal pain
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Return of flu symptoms with fever

In any case, if you have any doubts whether it is a common cold (ARVI) or flu, consult your doctor.

ARVI-influenza – Orenburg Regional Clinical Hospital №2

KNOW THE VIRUS “IN FACE”

What are the differences between influenza and ARVI?

To maintain immunity:

• take multivitamin complexes

• eat more vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin C

• be outdoors more often

! Influenza is dangerous for its complications.

This is:

 pneumonia,

 otitis,

 cerebral edema,

 pulmonary edema,

 endocarditis (heart damage),

 glomerulonephritis (kidney damage),

 a pronounced decrease in immunity.

REMEMBER!

• Any viral disease is dangerous to carry “on your feet”! This is fraught with complications.
• At the first sign of illness, stay at home and call your doctor.
• Sick people cannot go to work! This also puts your colleagues at risk of infection.
• Self-medication can lead to undesirable consequences and complications.

Appreciate yourself and be healthy!

A MINIMUM OF IMPORTANT ACTIONS WILL REDUCE THE PROBABILITY OF INFECTION WITH INFLUENZA AND ARVI.

Transmission of infection occurs from a sick person not only by airborne droplets (when coughing and sneezing), but also by contact and household (through dishes, towels, when shaking hands).

A person is contagious one day before clinical manifestations and one week after feeling better. And if he has complications – the entire period of the disease!

Preventive measures:

1. Observe a comfortable room temperature, avoid drafts and hypothermia.
2. Ventilate the room regularly at home and at work.
3. Perform daily wet cleaning of premises
4. Hypothermia lowers immunity, so dress for the weather.
5. Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing with disposable handkerchiefs and discard immediately after use.
6. Avoid touching your mouth, nose, eyes.
7. Maintain “distance” when communicating with others.
8. Wash your hands frequently or wipe them with disinfectants.
9. Avoid close contact with sick people.

10. Reduce the time spent in crowded places.

Influenza – GAUZ GKB 2

What is flu and what is its danger?

Influenza is an infectious disease. Its causative agent is a virus that from infected people enters the nasopharynx of others.Other illnesses can have similar symptoms and are often mistaken for the flu. But only the disease caused by the flu virus is the flu. Anyone can get it, but the infection rate is highest among children. Most people only get the flu for a few days. Some people become more seriously ill. Influenza can develop into pneumonia, which is dangerous for people with heart or lung disease. Also, with the flu, existing chronic diseases are exacerbated. Influenza pathogens – viruses of types A and B are distinguished by their aggressiveness and extremely high reproduction rate.Within hours of infection, the influenza virus causes deep damage to the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, opening up opportunities for bacteria to enter it. This explains the greater number of bacterial complications that occur with influenza. Another important feature of influenza viruses is their ability to mutate: almost every year, new variants of viruses appear.

Flu symptoms: fever, temperature 37.5 – 39 ° C, headache, pain in muscles, joints, chills, fatigue, cough, runny nose or stuffy nose, pain (sore throat).

What to do if you get the flu?

You should stay at home, so as not only not to infect others, but also to start treatment in time, for which you must immediately consult a doctor. Self-medication for influenza is unacceptable. It is the doctor who must diagnose and prescribe the necessary treatment appropriate for your condition and age. It is necessary to strictly follow all the recommendations of the attending physician: take medications in a timely manner and observe bed rest during the illness, since the disease increases the load on the cardiovascular, immune and other systems of the body.It is recommended to drink plenty of water – hot tea, cranberry or lingonberry juice, alkaline mineral waters.

Dear parents! Do not send sick children to kindergarten, school, cultural events.

At a temperature of 38 – 39 ° C, call a local doctor at home or an emergency team, “ambulance”.

Drink liquids more often than usual (teas, fruit drinks, compotes, juices).

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or tissue when coughing or sneezing.

To prevent the spread of infection, the patient should be isolated from healthy persons (preferably a separate room). The room where the patient is located must be regularly ventilated, household items, as well as the floors, should be wiped with disinfectants.

Communication with the patient, if possible, should be limited. A medical mask (gauze bandage) should be used when caring for someone with the flu.

How to protect yourself from the flu?

Timely, before the start of the epidemic season, it is necessary to get the flu vaccine.Annual vaccination is the most effective preventive measure against influenza. It is carried out with effective influenza vaccines containing the current strains of influenza viruses recommended by the World Health Organization for the upcoming epidemic season. Vaccination is recommended for all groups of the population, but it is especially indicated for contingents from risk groups: children from 6 months old, elderly people suffering from chronic diseases, medical workers, teachers, students, service workers, transport.Vaccination is carried out no later than 2-3 weeks before the onset of the epidemic rise in incidence.

Non-specific influenza prevention measures include the following:

Reduce the time spent in crowded places and public transport.

Avoid close contact with people who have signs of illness: sneezing, coughing.

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap, rinse the nasal cavity.

Ventilate the area you are in regularly and do wet cleaning.

Use the mask in crowded areas.

Eat foods containing vitamin C (cranberries, lingonberries, lemon, etc.), as well as dishes with garlic and onions.

In order to increase the body’s resistance to respiratory viruses, including influenza viruses, use (as recommended by a doctor) various drugs and agents that increase immunity.

In the event of a family or work collective with influenza, it is recommended to start taking antiviral drugs for prophylactic purposes (taking into account contraindications and according to the instructions for use of the drug).

Lead a healthy lifestyle (good sleep, balanced diet, physical activity).

IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER!

It is not recommended to carry the flu “on your feet”;

A timely visit to a doctor and an early start of treatment (the first 48 hours of illness) will reduce the risk of developing complications from influenza.

90,000 Background – Avian Influenza and Pandemic Threat

Reference

Coordination
UN group

This portal aims to bring together all the news and general information on avian influenza and the pandemic threat available in the UN information system.

The portal is maintained by the United Nations System Senior Coordinator for Avian and Human Influenza (UNSIC).

The UN Department of Public Information (DPI) handles requests for information from UNCIC and coordinates the exchange of information on avian influenza issues at the UN.

Reference

Since 2003, a severe avian flu epidemic, caused by the extremely life-threatening H5N1 virus, has killed poultry in many countries in Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa.Over a hundred people, most of whom have had direct contact with the infected bird, have died; most of the cases occurred in previously healthy children and young people.

In order to stop the spread of the virus, more than 200 million chickens had to be killed; however, a large number of poultry died due to avian influenza. Farmers and poultry producers suffered significant losses that amounted to billions of dollars.

Avian influenza is an animal disease that has not yet been transmitted from person to person.Scientists are concerned that the virus will acquire the ability to spread from an infected person to a healthy person. The widespread prevalence of avian influenza virus in animals increases this risk.

The worldwide fight against avian influenza and the threat of a pandemic of the human influenza virus is focused on solving the following problems:

1. Controlling the spread of avian influenza virus in domestic animals – mainly chickens and ducks – by improving virus detection, surveillance and veterinary services; which aims to reduce economic losses in the poultry sector, limit sporadic human cases and reduce the likelihood of a human influenza virus pandemic.
2. Prepare for a human influenza virus pandemic if preventive measures are unsuccessful. Sectoral initiatives will include the development of preparedness and crisis response plans by public authorities, local and regional institutions, commercial and voluntary partners, the media and international organizations.

National avian and human influenza virus programs are central to the global avian influenza crisis response system.However, many countries have only a limited set of technical and material resources to develop and implement their own avian influenza programs, so they increasingly rely on technical support from UN organizations.

90,000 What is flu and what is its danger

What is flu and what is its danger?

Influenza is an infectious disease that anyone can get.The causative agent of influenza is a virus that from infected people enters the nasopharynx of others.

Most people only get the flu for a few days, but some get more serious, possibly severe illness, and even death.

With the flu, existing chronic diseases are aggravated, in addition, the flu has an extensive list of possible complications:

Pulmonary complications (pneumonia, bronchitis). Pneumonia is the cause of most deaths from influenza.

Complications from the upper respiratory tract and ENT organs (otitis media, sinusitis, rhinitis, tracheitis).

Complications from the cardiovascular system (myocarditis, pericarditis).

Complications from the nervous system (meningitis, meningoencephalitis, encephalitis, neuralgia, polyradiculoneuritis).

To avoid possible complications, it is important to timely prevent influenza and properly treat the disease itself.

Influenza usually starts suddenly.The causative agents of influenza, viruses of types A and B, are distinguished by their aggressiveness and extremely high reproduction rate, therefore, within a few hours after infection, the virus leads to deep lesions of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, opening up opportunities for bacteria to penetrate it.

Flu symptoms include fever, temperature 37.5–39 ° C, headache, pain in muscles and joints, chills, fatigue, cough, runny nose or stuffy nose, pain and sore throat.

Influenza can be confused with other diseases, so a clear diagnosis must be made by a doctor, who also prescribes treatment tactics.

What to do if you get the flu?

The patient himself, at the first symptoms, needs to stay at home, so as not only not to infect others, but also to start treatment in time, for which it is necessary to immediately consult a doctor. To prevent the further spread of infection, the sick person must be isolated from healthy persons, it is advisable to allocate a separate room.

Important!

Parents! In no case send sick children to kindergarten, school, cultural events.With the flu, it is extremely important to stay in bed, as with the disease, the load on the cardiovascular, immune and other systems of the body increases.

Self-medication for influenza is unacceptable, and it is the doctor who must diagnose and prescribe the necessary treatment appropriate for the patient’s condition and age.

For proper treatment, it is necessary to strictly follow all the recommendations of the attending physician and take medications in a timely manner. In addition, it is recommended to drink plenty of water – it can be hot tea, cranberry or lingonberry juice, alkaline mineral waters.You need to drink more often and as much as possible.

Important!

At a temperature of 38 – 39 ° C, call a local doctor at home or an ambulance team.

When coughing and sneezing, the patient should cover his mouth and nose with a handkerchief or napkin.

The room where the patient is located must be regularly ventilated and wet cleaning should be carried out as often as possible, preferably with the use of disinfectants acting on viruses.

Contact with a sick influenza should be limited, and when caring for him, a medical mask or gauze bandage should be used.

How to protect yourself from the flu?

According to the position of the World Health Organization, the most effective remedy against influenza is vaccination, because it is the vaccine that provides protection against those types of influenza virus that are most relevant in this epidemiological season and are included in its composition.

The introduction of a vaccine into the body cannot cause disease, but by developing protective antibodies it stimulates the immune system to fight infection.The effectiveness of the influenza vaccine is incomparably higher than all non-specific medications that can be taken during the winter months, such as immunomodulators, vitamins, homeopathic remedies, “traditional medicine” and so on.

Vaccination is recommended for all groups of the population, but it is especially indicated for children from 6 months, people suffering from chronic diseases, pregnant women, as well as people from occupational risk groups – medical workers, teachers, students, service and transport workers.

Vaccination should be carried out 2-3 weeks before the onset of an increase in the incidence, vaccination can only be done in a medical institution by specially trained medical personnel, while a doctor’s examination is required before vaccination.

There are few contraindications to influenza vaccination. The flu vaccine should not be given in acute febrile conditions, during an exacerbation of chronic diseases, with an increased sensitivity of the body to egg white (if it is part of the vaccine).

Having been vaccinated against influenza, you protect your body from the attack of the most dangerous viruses – influenza viruses, but there are still more than 200 types of viruses that are less dangerous for humans, but can also cause SARS. Therefore, during the period of an epidemic rise in the incidence of ARVI and influenza, it is recommended to take non-specific prophylaxis measures.

Flu Prevention Regulations:

Get the flu vaccine prior to the outbreak season.

Reduce the time spent in crowded places and public transport.

Use a mask in crowded areas.

Avoid close contact with people who show signs of illness, such as sneezing or coughing.

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water regularly, especially after outside and public transport.