“Flu” (Influenza)-What is Influenza?

By Patrick Olabode

Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness the outcome of which can result in hospitalization or death.  The elderly, children and people with chronic health conditions are at high risk of serious flu complications.

Signs and Symptoms

Fever* or feeling feverish/chills

Cough

Sore throat

Runny or stuffy nose

Muscle or body aches

Headaches

Fatigue (very tired)

Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

“Flu virus spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. “

Flu virus spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. A person might also get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, eyes or possibly their nose. Flu can be passed on to someone else before falling sick as well as while one is sick.

“The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a Flu vaccine each year. “

Prevention

The first and most important step in preventing flu is to get a flu vaccination each year. Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends everyday preventive actions such staying away from people who are sick, covering coughs and sneezes and frequent handwashing to help slow the spread of germs that cause nose, throat, and lungs’ diseases such as flu.

Treatment

If you get the flu, you may need to see a healthcare practitioner who will prescribe an antiviral drug which may be a treatment option. Check with your doctor promptly if you are at high risk of serious flu complications and you get flu symptoms.  People at high risk of flu complications include young children, adults 65 years of age and older, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease.

The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a Flu vaccine each year. GET YOUR FLU SHOT TODAY!

· (Courtesy of Center for Disease Control (CDC) website)

Patrick Olabode, MSN, RN, CPN (patolabode@yahoo.com)