the flu

Influenza is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. Flu is also called influenza

Flu and its complications can be fatal The following are at increased risk of flu complications:

• young children
• people over 65
• pregnant women
• people with a weakened immune system
• people with chronic diseases

The best way to protect against the flu is annual vaccination

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Flu viruses are released into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus can get into your body by breathing it in, or you can get it by touching something contaminated with the virus, such as a phone or keyboard, and putting your hands over your eyes, nose, or mouth.

People with the virus are most contagious from the day before symptoms appear to 5-10 days after symptoms appear. Children and people with weakened immune systems may be contagious for longer

The flu virus is always changing and new strains appear regularly If you have had the flu, your body has antibodies against the flu or strain If the flu virus that enters your body is similar to the virus you carried or received during vaccination, the antibodies will protect you from developing the infection or make it less severe.

These antibodies will not protect you against new subtypes of the virus, which are immunologically very different from the transmitted viruses. Many new types of the virus have been identified since the 1918 global epidemic that killed tens of millions of people

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Flu can be mistaken for a cold due to cough, sneezing and sore throat Colds usually develop more slowly, and flu develops more quickly During the flu, you also feel much worse than a cold

Common signs and symptoms of flu include:

• Fever above 38
• Muscle pain in the back, arms and legs
• Chills and sweating
• Headache
• Dry cough
• Fatigue and general
  
  If you have flu symptoms and are at risk of complications, see your doctor right away Taking antiviral drugs within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms shortens the duration of the illness and protects you from more serious problems