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Influenza (Flu)
What is Influenza (Also Called Flu)?
The flu is a viral infection and also a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.
Symptoms of the Flu:
-Flu symptoms are usually worse than a cold and last longer. -fever (often high) -headache -extreme tiredness -dry cough -sore throat -runny or stuffy nose -muscle aches -Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults. Some people who have been infected with the new H1N1 flu virus have reported diarrhea and vomiting. *Symptoms typically appear 1-5 days after infection.
Influenza is an Orthomyxovirus. Influenza has a natural reservoir in the wild bird population and can infect a wild range of hosts.
What Pathogen Causes Influenza?
Orthomyxovirus
Person who has the flu.
Flu viruses are thought to spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 5-7 days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.
How is Influenza Spread?
How can Influenza be Prevented?
Get a seasonal flu vaccination each year. The best time to get the vaccine is in October or November, just before the start of flu season. You can get the vaccine as a shot or in a spray that you breathe in through your nose. There are two types of flu vaccines: 1. The ''flu shot'' – an inactivated vaccine (containing killed virus) that is given with a needle. 2. The nasal-spray flu vaccine – a vaccine made with live, weakened flu viruses that do not cause the flu The vaccine usually prevents most cases of the flu. But even if you do get the flu after you've had the vaccine, your symptoms will be milder and you'll have less chance of problems from the flu. You cannot get the flu from the flu vaccine. * Flu shots are 70%-90% effective in preventing influenza in healthy adults
How is Influenza Treated?
There is no treatment for influenza, there are things you can do to minimize discomfort. You can take a pain reliever (aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen) to reduce fever and muscle aches. A person with flu should drink plenty of liquids and eat normally as soon as possible to prevent getting dehydrated and to speed recovery. Bed rest is advised, and it is best to avoid over exertion until symptoms are gone.
