Flu is a viral infection that can be deadly especially in high-risk groups. It is a very common infection, with more than 10 million cases per year (India) usually, it is self-diagnosable. It is a respiratory illness, attacks especially on the nose, throat, and lungs. Flu is caused by influenza viruses. There are 4 types of influenza viruses, A, B, C, and D.
Influenza 'A' - Also called "Bird flu", widespread in various mammals, including pigs and humans.
Influenza 'B' and 'C' - Infect humans.
Influenza 'D' - Found in pigs and cattle.
Following are signs and symptoms of flu
Fever.
Cold sweats.
Muscle aches.
Chills.
Cough (can be dry or with phlegm).
Sore throat.
Runny nose.
Congestion.
Headaches.
Fatigue.
Nausea.
You should seek medical help urgently if you're experiencing
Shortness of breath.
Pain or pressure in the chest.
Confusion or loss of alertness.
Not urinating (dehydration).
A fever or cough that goes away and then comes back.
Flu is contagious, hence, it can be spread easily from person to person. when the infected person coughs or sneezes, other people inhale the airborne virus and can become infected. In some cases, the flu can be spread when someone touches the infected surface because the flu virus can live on surfaces for up to 24 hours. The flu is most easily spread in crowded places.
Have a look at these preventive measures
Cover your mouth and nose in crowded places.
Get a flu vaccine shot.
Avoid close contact with sick persons.
Clean your hands regularly, or you can use a sanitizer.
Exercise regularly.
Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth.
Eat healthy and balanced meals to boost your immune system.
Stay at home until your fever is gone for 24 hours without using any antipyretics.
Quit smoking
Manage your flu with these managing tips
Take rest properly, stay at home.
Drink lots of fluids. Water, juices, broth, etc.
Eat a light diet, avoid spicy and fried foods.
Take hot steam to relieve nasal congestion.
If you're seriously ill, your doctor will diagnose you properly and might prescribe an antiviral drug for you. Diagnosis is usually done by " Rapid influence diagnostic tests (RIDTs) ". Using swabs or samples of secretions taken from a patient's throat or nose. If your symptoms reappearing again and again even after taking medications, you may have any secondary condition.
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