Influenza (Flu): Treatment, Prevention, Symptoms

IntroductionInfluenza meaning — Influenza is the flu-causing virus that attacks one’s lungs, an indispensable part of the respiratory system. In severe cases, it can lead to bronchitis, pneumonia, chest pain, etc. People with weak immune systems, children under 5 years of age, and senior citizens over 65 are more susceptible to contracting flu. Flu can also cause vulnerability to respiratory illnesses such as asthma.

Treatment

Treatment is the same for all viruses. Oseltamivir, peramivir, and zanamivir

are some antiviral drugs that work against seasonal flu. They also help with the treatment of H1N1 symptoms or the swine flu. However, some kinds of swine flu are resistant to oseltamivir.

These drugs can help with the recovery at a quicker pace if consumed within the first 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.

Antibiotics cannot work extensively against flu because viruses cause flu.

Those drugs work against bacteria. But if one has already got a shot of the H1N1 vaccine, the symptoms are milder, or the antibodies protect one’s body.

In addition to drugs and rest, taking in the vapor can help alleviate symptoms and subside breathing troubles.

Prevention

Some protective measures that we can take to keep ourselves safe from infection are as follows:

● Washing one’s hands often with soap and water or using sanitizers is effective.

● One should avoid touching the mouth, face, or eyes, especially after touching common surfaces in public.

● Never sneeze or cough into the open. One should always use a handkerchief; if not, use a tissue or sneeze into your elbows.

● One should avoid crowds, especially during seasons in which flu can spread easily or if there is already a warning.

● To prevent infecting others, One should stay away from sick people and remain indoors if they are sick.

Symptoms

Almost all the flu symptoms are common, except for a handful.

Common Flu:

● Dry, persistent cough

● Chills and sweats

● Runny or stuffy nose

● Shortness of breath

● Vomiting and diarrhea only in children

● Eye pain

● Muscle pain

● Headache

● Fever