Every year, millions of people around the world are struck by influenza, more commonly known as the flu.
Though often confused with a common cold, influenza is a serious respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. What makes it especially concerning is its highly contagious nature, spreading rapidly through the air or by direct contact.
How influenza spreads
According to Harvard Health Publishing, influenza typically surges in epidemics that peak during the winter months. In developed nations, between 10–15% of people are affected each year, with numbers rising sharply during severe outbreaks. A particularly severe epidemic can escalate into a pandemic, striking large populations in a very short time.
The influenza A and B viruses are the most common strains, with Influenza A responsible for most annual epidemics. Unlike some infections that provide lasting immunity, the flu virus changes frequently, meaning people can catch it multiple times over their lives.
Symptoms
The flu is more than just a respiratory illness — it affects the entire body. Symptoms range from mild to severe and may include:
- chills and fever (101–103°f)
- muscle aches and headaches
- fatigue
- cough, sore throat, and runny nose
- diarrhea or dizziness
While most cases resolve in a few days, dangerous complications can arise, particularly pneumonia. People most vulnerable to severe complications include infants and older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with weakened immune systems.
Diagnosis and duration
Doctors usually diagnose influenza based on symptoms such as fever, chills, coughing, and muscle aches, especially during the winter flu season. Tests like nasal swabs or chest X-rays may be used in more complicated cases.
Symptoms generally last four to five days, but recovery can take longer. Importantly, a person remains contagious as long as symptoms persist.
Prevention: Vaccines and hygiene
Prevention remains the strongest defense against influenza. Annual vaccination is widely recommended for everyone aged six months and older, especially children, older adults, pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses, and healthcare workers.
Other protective measures include:
Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and covering coughs.
Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
Considering antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza), which can reduce the risk of infection if taken at the right time.
Treatment
Most people with influenza recover at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers for fever and body aches. Antiviral medications such as baloxavir (Xofluza), peramivir (Rapivab), and Tamiflu may help, but only if started soon after symptoms begin.
Since influenza is a viral illness, antibiotics are not effective. In children, aspirin must be avoided because of the risk of a rare but dangerous condition called Reye's syndrome.
When to seek medical help
If flu symptoms are accompanied by chest pain, ear pain, shortness of breath, high fever, or coughing up blood or foul-smelling mucus, medical help should be sought immediately. Those with chronic illnesses should also consult a doctor promptly, as early antiviral treatment can be lifesaving.
For most, influenza is an uncomfortable but temporary illness. Yet for others, it can lead to serious even life-threatening complications. With annual vaccination, good hygiene, and timely treatment, the risks can be greatly reduced.
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