Influenza is also referred to as the flu or seasonal flu. Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus. The flu is generally mild in nature, but in some cases, it can lead to advanced distress, hospitalization and even death. It is more dangerous for people who are already ill, elderly or have weakened immune systems. Learning what the symptoms of the flu are and how to prevent the spread of the virus will help reduce health complications.
Facts
Influenza is often referred to as the seasonal flu. Influenza can be contracted any time of the year but is most prevalent between the months of September and January. According to the Centers for Disease Control, influenza generally affects between 5 and 20 percent of the United States population. Most of the widespread cases of the flu spread through areas where people are more confined to one space such as schools, large employment sites and nursing homes. Each year around 36,000 people in the United States die from the flu and its symptoms.
Symptoms
Generally, once someone contracts influenza, the symptoms begin to appear in roughly 24 hours. Some of these symptoms may include; muscle pain, muscle aches, weakness, body ache, sleepiness, high fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit, persistent cough. Irritated or sore throat, runny nasal passages and lethargy. In some cases including the H1N1 influenza, the virus can bring about symptoms of gastrointestinal distress including diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and severe stomach cramping. Most over-the-counter remedies such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help ease flu symptoms.
Effects
Influenza can confine someone to bed for at least 24 hours. Most people who have the flu are unable to work or go to school while they are ill. Some people begin to feel better within 48 hours or two days; with others it may take up to a week before they are fully recovered. It is important to drink plenty of fluids during an influenza outbreak to avoid hydration. Dehydration can send people to the emergency room just as much as other severe complications from the virus.
Warnings
Influenza can be a very serious and even life-threatening condition. Knowing what some of the warning signs are will possibly help prevent the virus from getting out of control. A form of bacterial pneumonia is one such serious complication. Warning signs include a fever that does not subside, an increase in sputum in the throat and lungs, wheezing and difficulty breathing. Those with underlying medical conditions may see a significant increase in their symptoms related to their disease. Prompt medical attention should be sought to avoid further complications or hospitalization. Dehydration is also a serious complication. If the patient is unresponsive, weak, and their skin is pale or does not go back to shape after pinching, they need to get to the nearest emergency room immediately. Anyone who is having difficulty standing, breathing, or staying alert should seek medical care as soon as possible.
Prevention
The key to not getting influenza is to take as many preventative measures as possible. The best way to do this is by practicing safe hand washing techniques. This means washing with an antibacterial soap as often as possible. If soap is unavailable, an alcohol-based hand sanitizing lotion will suffice. Making sure to wash all surfaces in the household frequently such as door handles, tables and other shared surfaces will help prevent the virus from spreading within the family. Keeping your sick child home from school and staying home from work will also help minimize the overall spread of influenza to others. An annual flu shot just before flu season begins will help you avoid catching influenza.
