What is considered a fever in adults and children. How high can a fever go before it becomes dangerous. What are the common causes and symptoms of fever. How to properly diagnose and treat fevers at home.

What Defines a Fever and Its Normal Temperature Range?

A fever is characterized by an elevated body temperature above the normal range. But what exactly constitutes “normal” body temperature? The average body temperature typically falls between 97.5°F (36.4°C) and 98.9°F (37.2°C). It’s worth noting that body temperature can fluctuate throughout the day, often being lower in the morning and higher in the evening.

Most healthcare professionals consider a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher to be a fever. This elevation in body temperature is usually an indication that something unusual is occurring within the body, rather than an illness itself.

Is fever always a sign of illness?

While fever often signals an underlying health issue, it’s not always indicative of illness. Factors such as intense physical exercise, exposure to hot weather, and even routine childhood immunizations can cause a temporary rise in body temperature. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider other symptoms and circumstances when evaluating a fever.

Common Causes of Fever: Beyond Infections

Although bacterial and viral infections are frequent culprits behind fevers, they aren’t the only causes. Other potential triggers include:

• Allergic reactions to food or medication
• Overexertion in hot weather
• Inflammatory conditions
• Certain medications
• Hormonal imbalances

Understanding these diverse causes can help in better identifying the root of a fever and seeking appropriate treatment.

Can environmental factors cause fever?

Yes, environmental factors can indeed lead to elevated body temperatures. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures or engaging in strenuous activities in hot conditions can result in heat exhaustion or heat stroke, both of which may present with fever-like symptoms. It’s essential to distinguish between environmentally-induced temperature elevations and those caused by internal factors to ensure proper management.

Recognizing Fever Symptoms: Beyond the Thermometer

While an elevated temperature is the primary indicator of a fever, several other symptoms often accompany this condition. Being aware of these signs is particularly crucial when caring for individuals who may not be able to express how they feel, such as infants, young children, or people with disabilities.

Common symptoms associated with fever include:

• Flushed face
• Hot, dry skin
• Reduced urine output or dark-colored urine
• Loss of appetite
• Gastrointestinal issues (constipation or diarrhea)
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Generalized body aches
• Nausea

Are fever symptoms different in children and adults?

While many fever symptoms are similar across age groups, children may exhibit some unique signs. These can include increased irritability, lethargy, or changes in sleep patterns. In infants, a fever might manifest as unusual fussiness, refusal to feed, or excessive sleepiness. Adults, on the other hand, might experience more pronounced muscle aches and fatigue.

Accurate Fever Diagnosis: Choosing the Right Thermometer

Proper diagnosis of a fever relies heavily on accurate temperature measurement. Several types of thermometers are available, each with its own advantages and suitable applications:

1. Digital thermometers: These versatile devices can be used orally, rectally, or under the armpit.
2. Tympanic (ear) thermometers: While convenient, these are not recommended for babies under 6 months old.
3. Temporal artery thermometers: These provide quick readings by scanning the forehead area.

For children under 3 years of age, rectal temperature measurement is considered the most accurate method. In older children and adults, oral or armpit readings are generally sufficient.

Are mercury thermometers still safe to use?

While some mercury thermometers may still be in circulation, their use is discouraged due to the toxic nature of mercury. If you possess a mercury thermometer, it’s advisable to replace it with a modern digital alternative. Proper disposal of mercury thermometers is crucial to protect both human health and the environment. Contact your local health department, waste disposal authority, or fire department for guidance on safe disposal methods.

Effective Fever Management: Home Treatment Strategies

When dealing with a fever, several home treatment options can help alleviate discomfort and potentially reduce the elevated temperature:

• Over-the-counter medications: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be effective in managing fever. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Hydration: Increasing fluid intake helps prevent dehydration, a common concern during fevers.
• Rest: Allowing the body to rest can aid in recovery and temperature regulation.
• Cool compresses: Applying a cool, damp cloth to the forehead or wrists can provide comfort.
• Lukewarm baths: A tepid bath may help reduce fever, but avoid cold water as it can cause shivering, which may increase body temperature.

Is it safe to alternate between acetaminophen and ibuprofen for fever treatment?

While some healthcare providers may recommend alternating between acetaminophen and ibuprofen, this practice can lead to medication errors and potential side effects. It’s generally safer to stick with one medication unless specifically instructed otherwise by a healthcare professional. Never administer aspirin to children or young adults with fever due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Red Flags for Fever

While many fevers can be managed at home, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention. Be alert for the following warning signs:

• Fever in infants under 3 months old
• Seizures
• Lethargy or confusion
• Irregular breathing
• Stiff neck
• Appearance of a purple spotted rash
• Persistent ear pain (especially in children)
• Sore throat that doesn’t improve
• Severe vomiting or diarrhea
• Painful or frequent urination

Can fever alone cause brain damage?

Contrary to popular belief, fever alone rarely causes brain damage. The human body has mechanisms to regulate temperature and protect vital organs. However, extremely high fevers (above 107.6°F or 42°C) can potentially lead to complications. It’s not just the temperature itself, but the underlying cause of such high fevers that often poses the greatest risk. This is why prompt medical attention is crucial in cases of very high or persistent fevers.

Fever in Special Populations: Children and the Elderly

Fever management can be particularly challenging in certain age groups. Children and the elderly often require special considerations:

Fever in Children

Children’s bodies may respond differently to infections and their temperature can rise more quickly than adults. Key points to remember include:

• Febrile seizures can occur in some children, usually between 6 months and 5 years of age.
• The speed of temperature rise, rather than the absolute temperature, is often what triggers seizures.
• Always consult a pediatrician for fevers in infants under 3 months old.

Fever in the Elderly

Older adults may not always present with typical fever symptoms. Important considerations include:

• Baseline temperatures in the elderly may be lower than average.
• Changes in mental status or behavior may be the first sign of infection in older adults.
• Chronic health conditions can complicate fever management in the elderly.

How does fever presentation differ in immunocompromised individuals?

Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or living with HIV, may not mount a typical fever response to infections. In these cases, even a slight elevation in temperature could signal a significant infection. Immunocompromised patients should have a lower threshold for seeking medical attention when experiencing any signs of illness, including mild fever.

Fever Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction

Many misconceptions surround fever, its causes, and its treatment. Let’s address some common myths:

Myth 1: Fever is always bad and must be treated aggressively

Fact: Fever is often a natural defensive response of the body against infections. Moderate fevers don’t necessarily require treatment if the person is comfortable.

Myth 2: The higher the fever, the more serious the illness

Fact: The severity of an illness doesn’t always correlate with the height of the fever. Some serious infections may cause only a slight temperature elevation, while minor viral infections can sometimes produce high fevers.

Myth 3: Fevers will keep rising if left untreated

Fact: The body has internal mechanisms to regulate temperature. Most fevers plateau around 103°F to 104°F (39.4°C to 40°C) if left untreated.

Is it true that you should ‘starve a fever’?

This old adage has no scientific basis. While appetite often decreases during a fever, maintaining proper nutrition and hydration is crucial for recovery. Forcing food isn’t necessary, but ensuring adequate fluid intake is essential. Light, easily digestible foods can be offered as tolerated.

Advanced Fever Management: When Home Remedies Aren’t Enough

In some cases, fever may persist despite home treatments or may be accompanied by concerning symptoms. Advanced management strategies may include:

• Prescription medications: Antibiotics for bacterial infections or antiviral drugs for certain viral infections.
• Intravenous fluids: To combat dehydration in severe cases.
• Diagnostic tests: Blood tests, urine analysis, or imaging studies to identify the underlying cause.
• Hospitalization: For high-risk individuals or those with severe symptoms.

When might fever indicate a medical emergency?

Fever can signify a medical emergency in certain situations, such as:

• Very high fever (above 104°F or 40°C) that doesn’t respond to treatment
• Fever accompanied by severe headache and neck stiffness (possible meningitis)
• Fever with a widespread rash, especially if purple or red spots don’t blanch under pressure (possible sepsis)
• Fever in someone with a compromised immune system

In these cases, immediate medical attention is crucial.

Preventing Fever-Related Complications: Proactive Measures

While not all fevers can be prevented, certain steps can help minimize the risk of fever-related complications:

• Maintain good hygiene practices to reduce the risk of infections
• Stay up-to-date with vaccinations
• Manage chronic health conditions effectively
• Practice sun safety and avoid overexertion in hot weather
• Ensure proper food handling and storage to prevent foodborne illnesses

How can workplaces and schools help prevent the spread of fever-causing infections?

Institutions can implement several strategies to minimize the spread of infections:

• Encourage sick individuals to stay home
• Provide adequate hand-washing facilities and hand sanitizers
• Regularly clean and disinfect common areas and high-touch surfaces
• Promote good respiratory hygiene (covering coughs and sneezes)
• Implement policies for temperature checks during disease outbreaks

By fostering a culture of health awareness and proactive prevention, communities can significantly reduce the incidence of fever-causing illnesses.

Fever | Johns Hopkins Medicine

What is a fever?

A fever is a body temperature that is higher than normal. It usually means there is an abnormal process occurring in the body. Exercise, hot weather, and common childhood immunizations can also make body temperature rise.

What causes a fever?

A fever is not an illness by itself. Rather it is a symptom that something is not right within the body. A fever does not tell you what is causing it, or even that a disease is present. It may be a bacterial or viral infection. Or, it could be a reaction from an allergy to food or medicine. Becoming overheated at play or in the sun can also result in fever.

What are the symptoms of a fever?

Normal body temperature ranges from 97.5°F to 98.9°F (36.4°C to 37.2°C). It tends to be lower in the morning and higher in the evening. Most healthcare providers consider a fever to be 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. High fevers may bring on seizures or confusion in children. It’s not how high the temperature is, but how fast the temperature goes up that causes a seizure.

A fever has other symptoms besides a higher-than-normal temperature. These are especially important when caring for babies, young children, and disabled people. These groups may not be able to express how they feel. Signs that mean fever include:

• Flushed face
• Hot, dry skin
• Low output of urine, or dark urine
• Not interested in eating
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Aching all over
• Nausea

How is a fever diagnosed?

The best way to diagnose a fever is to take a temperature with a thermometer. There are several types of thermometers, including the following:

• Digital thermometer (oral, rectal, or under the armpit)
• Tympanic (ear) thermometer (not recommended in babies younger than 6 months of age)
• Temporal artery (temperature taken across the forehead area)

Taking a temperature rectally is the most accurate method in children under 3 years of age. In older children and adults, take the temperature under the armpit or in the mouth. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to take your temperature.

Most thermometers today are digital, but there are some glass thermometers containing mercury still in use. Mercury is toxic substance and is dangerous to humans and the environment. Because glass thermometers can break, they should be disposed of properly in accordance with local, state, and federal laws. For information on how to safely dispose of a mercury thermometer, contact your local health department, waste disposal authority, or fire department.

How is a fever treated?

You can treat a fever with acetaminophen or ibuprofen in dosages advised by your healthcare provider. Switching between giving acetaminophen and ibuprofen can cause medicine errors and may lead to side effects. Never give aspirin to a child or young adult who has a fever.

A lukewarm bath may reduce the fever. Alcohol rubdowns are no longer recommended.

Call your healthcare provider for guidance anytime you are uncomfortable with the conditions of the fever, and remember to contact your healthcare provider any time a temperature spikes quickly or persists despite treatment.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call your healthcare provider right away for a fever in a baby younger than 3 months old.

Call right away or seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur with a fever:

• Seizure
• Feeling dull or sleepy
• Irregular breathing
• Stiff neck
• Confusion
• Purple spotted rash
• Ear pain (a child tugging on his or her ear)
• Sore throat that persists
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Painful, burning, or frequent urination

Key points about fevers

• A fever is not an illness by itself, but, rather, a sign that something is not right within the body.
• Illness, exercise, hot weather, and common childhood immunizations can make body temperature rise.
• In addition to an elevated temperature, look for other signs, such as: flushed face, hot skin, low urine output, loss of appetite, headache, or other symptoms of an infection or illness.
• Once you have determined that the person has a fever, you may treat it by giving acetaminophen or ibuprofen in dosages advised by your healthcare provider.
• Call your healthcare provider if a baby under 3 months has a fever, or seek immediate medical attention if a fever is accompanied by a seizure, lethargy, irregular breathing, stiff neck, confusion, or other signs of a serious illness.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:

• Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
• Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
• Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.
• At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you.
• Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are.
• Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
• Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
• Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
• If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
• Know how you can contact your provider if you have questions.

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The Urgency Room is your comprehensive one-stop location for your urgent needs. Our standalone facilities are expertly outfitted with emergency trained providers and  state-of-the-art equipment to handle the variety of aches, pains, breaks, and illnesses that come through our doors every day.

Schedule an appointment at any of our three locations, open 365 days a year, including holidays, from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Our telehealth services are available from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Situated in Woodbury, Vadnais Heights, and Eagan, The Urgency Room is the quick and convenient alternative to overcrowded and understaffed emergency rooms for residents throughout the Twin Cities.

If you or your child has a high fever, don’t hesitate to seek care. Don’t drudge through hours of waiting at your typical emergency room. Instead, get evaluated and treated at your nearest Urgency Room, fast. With short wait times, friendly staff, and highly experienced providers, you’ll be back to yourself in no time.

What Is Considered a High Fever in Adults?

Most adults have a baseline temperature of 98. 6 F. Generally, temperatures of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher are considered high for an adult. However, when an adult sustains a temperature higher than 100 degrees Fahrenheit for an unusually long period of time, it could also be cause for concern. It’s best to act on the safe side and seek care at The Urgency Room right away. Fevers can be very complex and can stem from many different types of illnesses or infections. The providers at The Urgency Room can accurately assess and diagnose the source of your high fever. 

Fevers occur when the hypothalamus, your body’s “thermostat,” increases your body’s temperature because of fever-producing substances called pyrogens. When pyrogens are released into your blood, you could wind up with a dangerously high fever. Pyrogens could come from bacteria, drugs, toxins, viruses, and fungi. The severity of fever and its detrimental results increase as your condition persists—which is why getting a high fever treated sooner is always your best option.  

High Fever Thresholds 

Once a fever goes beyond the high level, an adult enters dangerous fever levels (104 F – 107 F). This dangerous level, also known as hyperpyrexia, is considered a medical emergency and you should seek medical care immediately. 

To give you a rough idea of the fever levels in adults, here’s a list: 

• Low high fever: 100 F – 101 F
• Intermediate high fever: 102 F
• Serious high fever: 103 F – 104 F
• Hyperpyrexia: 104 F – 107 F

It is sometimes difficult to pinpoint the source of a fever as there are an incredible number of diseases and illnesses that have high temperatures as a side effect or symptom. And while fevers most frequently accompany a viral illness, our providers will try and get down to the exact source. 

What Is Considered a High Fever in Children?

A high fever in a child may be any temperature higher than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, especially if that temperature is sustained above the 100-degree threshold for extended periods. If your child’s temperature is not showing signs of reducing, you should seek emergency care.

The severity and damage a fever can cause vary by the age of the child. Younger children and infants should be seen by a medical provider sooner than an adult or teenager would with a similar temperature.

In addition to high or rising temperatures that last longer than 24 hours, a child with a high fever could have other obvious symptoms. Be on the lookout for severe diarrhea, dehydration, repeated vomiting, seizures, or rash. Your child is especially susceptible to serious infections if they have any type of immune disorder or haven’t received immunizations.

When minutes matter, especially if your child has a high fever, get to your nearest Urgency Room—we have shorter wait times and state-of-the-art equipment to treat your illness fast.        

When Is It Time to Seek Care?

As listed above, the duration one with a high fever should wait to seek medical treatment varies depending on age. An infant should be seen right away even if it has temperatures constituting a low fever in adults. Similarly, an adult can wait until the fever persists for a day or two while a child, depending on its age, should be seen as soon as they’ve had a fever of any temperature for longer than 24 hours.

You may try fever-reducing medicines (ones containing acetaminophen) before seeking medical care, however, always consult with a medical provider if you are uncertain what medicine to administer for your child. 

Consider Using Telehealth for Less Intense Fevers

If you’re not experiencing a medical emergency but you’re concerned about your fever level or that of your child, consider using online care services. The Urgency Room utilizes video technology for patient convenience and overall experience improvement. You won’t have to waste precious time in your vehicle or using public transportation, not to mention waiting in the lobby. Just follow the instructions on our Online Care page.

How Can The Urgency Room Treat High Fevers in Adults and Children?

The Urgency Room is well-equipped to take care of you or your child when experiencing a high fever. Prolonged fever or dangerously high fevers can cause an onslaught of residual health problems, so it is always best to seek care rather than ignore the problem.

All three Urgency Room locations are equipped with providers and staff who have extensive emergency room experience as well as equipment to assess, diagnose and treat your illness or injury. 

Up-to-date technology at our Urgency Room locations includes:

• X-ray machines
• CT scanner
• Ultrasound
• High-complexity lab
• Sedation for adults and children

The Urgency Room also has a large library of at-home aftercare videos for you to reference after you’ve left our in-person care. Before, during, and after illness, The Urgency Room has your well-being as our first priority.

Medical  Care for a Wide Range of Symptoms, Available In-Person or Online

Looking for fast, trusted medical care in the Twin Cities? The Urgency Room can help you avoid the crowds and long waits of typical emergency rooms. Our facilities are owned and operated by members of the Emergency Physicians Professional Association. Our board-certified physicians and staff are here for you when you need medical care the most. 

We’ll always provide you with exceptional medical care closer to home. Schedule your non-emergent visits or log in online to start a visit with one of our providers online.

Fever

The state of the body, characterized by a rise in body temperature above normal, is called fever. Normally, the temperature of the human body is maintained at a level of about 37 ° C, however, in some (often infectious) diseases, a protective and adaptive reaction occurs, which is based on an increase in body temperature with the obligatory preservation of the thermoregulation mechanism. This property is a hallmark of fever from hyperthermia (overheating). Pyrogens cause fever – substances that enter the body during infection (exogenous pyrogens) or are formed by cells of the immune system as a result, for example, of inflammation (endogenous pyrogens).

Fever always passes in three stages:

1. Rise in temperature – blood vessels constrict, skin becomes pale, there is a feeling of chills, muscle tremors, metabolism in muscles increases. At this stage, heat production is much higher than heat transfer.
2. Temperature retention – the mechanisms of heat production and heat transfer are balanced – the temperature can be fixed for hours, days or weeks. Skin vessels dilate, the skin ceases to be pale and becomes hot to the touch, chills and trembling go away. At this time, a person experiences a feeling of heat.
3. Drop in temperature – either a sharp or gradual decrease in body temperature is possible. At this stage, heat transfer significantly exceeds heat production, profuse sweating occurs and diuresis increases. This stage begins in case of exhaustion of exogenous reserves or cessation of production of endogenous pyrogens.

There are several types of fever:

• Remittent (laxative) type is characterized by diurnal changes in temperature, which does not drop to normal;
• Intermittent (intermittent) type characterized by rapid diurnal fluctuations in temperature, which falls to normal and rises again;
• Constant fever – slight fluctuations in elevated temperature during the day;
• Relapsing fever – constantly elevated temperature for one or more days, then its reduction to normal and repeated increase;
• Perverse fever – a rise in temperature in the morning is characteristic;
• Incorrect fever – temperature fluctuation during the day occurs without any dependence.

Most often, fever indicates the presence of an infectious disease, but it can also be a symptom of cancer.

Fever is treated by identifying and eliminating the source of the infection. If necessary, fever is removed with the help of antipyretics: Nurofen, Aspirin . For children, Nurfen suspension , Panadol suppositories are recommended. Also, to reduce the temperature, you can use alcohol compresses or cold lotions, body wraps and immersion in a cold water bath.

Pankratova Evgenia Igorevna

The material is for informational purposes only. Medicinal products, biologically active supplements and other products are indicated as an example of their possible use and / or application, which in no way constitutes a recommendation for their use. Before using drugs, dietary supplements and medical equipment and other products, be sure to consult a specialist.

Influenza leaflet | Ministry of Health of the Kaliningrad Region

We are sick correctly. Five mistakes in the treatment of influenza and SARS, and how to avoid them

The day before yesterday I had a sore throat, but hot tea seemed to help. Yesterday the nose stopped breathing, but there was so much work, there was not even enough time to go to the pharmacy for drops.
This morning it became clear that that’s all – the disease has completely captured the body. We urgently need to take action!
Thus begins a series of mistakes that most people make, instead of the path to recovery, choosing the path to a protracted illness and complications.

We’ll talk about five common misconceptions and explain why you shouldn’t.

Mistake one: no time to get sick
We have all become very busy: we have a million things to do and responsibilities. There is no time to get sick, so we pour medicines into ourselves on the run that relieve symptoms, turn off liters of hot tea, and it seems that the disease is receding. Often, unfortunately, it really only seems so . .. In a few days, everything can manifest itself again, and, most likely, in an enhanced form. If you do not pay attention to the disease again, it is easy to reach serious complications.
All I had to do was stay at home and call a doctor. For 3-4 days of rest and taking the medicines prescribed by the doctor, the body, not too tortured by life, usually copes with the disease.

Error two: bring down low temperature
Yes, we understand that fever is a headache and a cloudy state. Therefore, the majority rushes to drink antipyretics as soon as they see the numbers 37 with a tail on the thermometer. And it would be necessary to rejoice in the increase in body temperature. After all, this is a sign that the immune system is working, the body is fighting the disease. Remember: you do not need to bring down the temperature if it is below 38.5 degrees. Of course, this does not apply to cases where the patient has a severe headache or has a tendency to convulsions.

Error three: wrapping up and closing all windows
With a cold or flu, the patient often gets chills, and his only desire is to wrap himself in ten blankets. What he does, having previously closed all the windows in the apartment. Don’t do it! Wrap yourself in the eleventh blanket, but be sure to ventilate! This will help reduce the concentration of viruses and normalize the microclimate in the room. If you can’t stand even a slightly ajar window at all, leave the room every 2-3 hours, open the window wide open for five minutes (yes, even if it’s winter), then return to a well-ventilated room.

Mistake four: drinking antibiotics
You tried to get rid of the symptoms, but it’s still bad… Treated with home remedies – not much better… “What’s wrong!”, you exclaim and go to the pharmacy for antibiotics. Stop! Turn around home. Doctors are already tired of explaining that antibiotics work against bacteria, while flu and colds are viral diseases. So drink in vain. Harm the stomach, but you can’t cope with the disease. But even in the case of a bacterial infection, antibiotics should be prescribed by a doctor. Recently, bacteria have developed resistance to many drugs, and whether one or the other will help in your case, you can’t guess for sure. By taking antibiotics thoughtlessly, you will accustom bacteria to them, and they will no longer be afraid of them.

The fifth mistake, and the most important one: it will go away on its own…
These four points might not exist if we were more serious about observing hygiene rules, proper prevention and competent treatment of any diseases. And it’s not difficult. Airborne viruses enter our body through the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx. If it is weakened or damaged, the viruses become attached to it and begin to multiply. Immunity can not cope and diseases develop: from simple, as we believe, colds to tonsillitis, bronchitis, pneumonia. In fact, even a common cold is often the beginning of a road to more serious ailments. That is why it is so important to properly strengthen the immune system and defend against viruses.

We hope that our advice will help you improve your health, and if you get sick, it is not often and not hard!

In the Russian Federation, the epidemic season of influenza and SARS continues, which is typical for this time of year.

The causative agents of influenza and SARS are transmitted from person to person by airborne droplets and are quite contagious (contagious).

With ARVI – acute respiratory viral infections of non-influenza etiology, the disease develops gradually, most often begins with fatigue and a runny nose, dry cough, which then turns into a wet one.

With influenza, there is a sharp deterioration in the condition – an increase in body temperature (in some cases up to 40.5 degrees), headache, “ache” in the muscles and joints, sensitivity to light. The most active phase falls on the 3rd-5th day of the disease, recovery on the 8th-10th day. The flu affects the blood vessels, so bleeding of the gums and nasal mucosa is possible. After suffering the flu, the body becomes extremely susceptible to various infections, which leads to severe infectious complications.

SARS and influenza are especially severe in young children, the elderly, people with chronic pathologies and diseases of the immune system.

The best protection against the flu is immunization. However, the vaccine does not protect against other SARS.

In order to prevent disease, it is necessary to strengthen and harden your body. Get enough sleep, observe the regime of work and rest, try to be in the fresh air more. Going for a walk, dress for the weather, try not to get cold when you are outside. If you get your feet wet, you need to steam them as soon as you return home.

Proper nutrition contributes to strengthening the body. Include in the diet foods containing vitamins A, C, zinc and calcium: citrus fruits, kiwi, sweet peppers, dairy and sour-milk products, hard cheeses, boiled fish, beef, carrots with sour cream, raisins or dried apricots, etc.

When planning to visit public places, take a medical mask with you: if you sneeze and cough in a public place, cover your mouth and nose with a medical mask or handkerchief – this will help prevent infection.

Any viral disease transferred “on the legs” can lead to undesirable consequences and complications in the future.