As we get into the middle of flu season, understanding flu, its risks, and ways to mitigate exposure grow in importance.
What is influenza?
Influenza, also called flu, is an infection affecting the respiratory system. Specifically, the nose, throat, and lungs. The flu is caused by influenza viruses which are different than the “stomach flu” which may cause symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.
What are the symptoms associated with flu?
The influenza viruses that cause flu can cause several symptoms. These may include common symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose or a sore throat. Other illnesses caused by influenza viruses, such as a cold, may express similar symptoms. However, while distinguishing between cold and flu, flu symptoms tend to have a more rapid onset as well as a higher severity.
Other common flu symptoms may include:
- Muscle Aches
- Cough
- Headache
- Sweating and Chills
- Fever
It is important to note that while a fever is common with flu, not everyone experiencing the flu may be displaying a fever. Symptoms in children may show up more generally such as elevated irritability. Children with the flu are also more likely to have symptoms such as ear pain and stomach pain when compared to adults who contract the flu.
How can you prevent flu exposure?
The best way to prevent the contraction of flu, is the annual flu vaccine. Other actions include everyday preventative actions which may include distancing from those who are sick, washing your hands thoroughly and frequently, as well as covering your nose when you cough or sneeze.
How can we treat the flu?
Flu antiviral drugs are the primary treatment of flu. Antiviral drugs are only available from pharmacies if you have a prescription from your doctor or health care provider. This means antiviral drugs are not sold over the counter. To be most effective, treatment of flu with antiviral drugs should start as soon as possible after symptoms begin. Treatment of flu with antiviral medications work best when started within two days of the display of symptoms.
One important thing to note is that because flu is caused by the influenza virus, antibiotics will not treat the flu. Antibiotics do not work on viruses. This means that the use of antibiotics will not help you with the flu, and in fact could do more harm than good. While antibiotics will not treat the flu, they may still cause negative side effects such as nausea, rash, or other more serious symptoms.
Flu is most common from December through March. During flu season, make sure to keep preventative measures in mind, and as always, follow your doctors recommendations.