Ever wonder how the flu manages to sneak its way into our lives? The flu affects everyone at some point in life. Dealing with the seasonal flu, where each person in the family falls sick one after the other, can be particularly challenging. Measures such as using hot water, dietary restrictions, and wearing masks when venturing outside show that the flu season is here!
As a highly contagious virus, the flu often starts as a simple cold or cough but can escalate to more severe respiratory problems. Those tiny droplets of water and air carrying the virus start spreading when someone talks, coughs, or sneezes. And the worst part is that you might be spreading the flu to others even before realizing you’re sick. While flu viruses tend to cause more illnesses during the colder months, it’s important to note that flu can occur at other times as well. So, it’s not just about avoiding that sneezing colleague; it’s also about being mindful of our own contagious potential, especially during flu season!
Symptoms of Flu
The symptoms begin 1-3 days after exposure to the virus and tend to last around a week.
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Cough and sore throat
- Body pain
- Chills
- Fever
- Headaches
- Fatigue
Transmission
The flu is transmitted through tiny water or air droplets when individuals infected with the virus talk, cough, or sneeze. Contagion can occur even before the infected person is aware of being sick and continues during the symptomatic phase.
Those with the flu are most contagious in the initial 3–4 days after the onset of their illness. In some cases, otherwise healthy adults might transmit the virus a day before symptoms appear and up to five to seven days after falling ill. Children and old people do not have the immunity to fight the infection; hence, they may remain contagious for an extended period of time.
Risk factors
While the flu can affect anyone, certain individuals are more susceptible to contracting the virus.
- Individuals with asthma, COPD, or lung diseases.
- Those with a weakened immune system.
- Individuals under 5 years of age or over 65 years.
- People with liver, kidney, or blood disorders, such as sickle cell disease.
Influenza virus types
The influenza virus responsible for causing the flu comes in various types, with A, B, and C being the most common. Influenza A and B are seasonal, with most infections occurring in the winter and exhibiting more severe symptoms. However, Influenza C does not induce severe symptoms and is not seasonal; its incidence remains constant throughout the year.
How to safeguard yourself from the flu
The primary preventive measure is getting an annual flu vaccine. Research indicates that flu vaccination can decrease flu-related illnesses and the risk of severe complications leading to hospitalization or death. Maintaining a healthy diet, using masks in crowded places, and practicing frequent handwashing are other preventive measures to safeguard yourself from flu.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Since flu symptoms are very common and often overlap with other diseases, individuals may be hesitant to undergo testing and opt for self-treatment. However, accurate diagnosis is crucial for timely and appropriate medication. A routine RT-PCR test is conducted to identify and diagnose the influenza virus.
In cases of flu, antiviral drugs designed for influenza may serve as a treatment option. These drugs are most effective when initiated early, ideally within one to two days of the onset of flu symptoms. Early treatment can mitigate symptoms and prevent their escalation. For individuals with severe symptoms, hospitalization and proper medical care may be necessary.
Recovery Process
The recovery process varies for every individual. Older people or children who have weakened immune systems often require a longer recovery period, while young and healthy individuals may recover quickly. Understanding the flu’s stages and its signs and symptoms aids in proper recovery. It also assists in determining if one is still contagious and capable of transmitting the virus to others.
While the flu may not always be perceived as a significant health crisis, it’s still the most prevalent virus which affects millions worldwide. Taking steps to prevent the flu can help us live healthier lives. By taking some simple preventive measures, we can avoid getting sick and experiencing the discomfort that comes with a week-long battle against the flu, disrupting our lives. Book you appointment at Aarthi scans and Labs or visit your nearest center.