Flu is a disease that occurs in our respiratory system, caused by a virus called influenza. If not treated correctly, it can develop into a respiratory illness called pneumonia.
Cold and flu are not the same thing. The cold is caused by three different types of viruses: rhinoviruses, adenoviruses and parainfluenza. It's spread in the same way as the flu, but it's much milder and causes fewer complications.
The flu is spread from person to person through drops of saliva
The flu is spread from one person to another through drops of saliva expelled when talking, sneezing or coughing. It can also be transmitted through contaminated cutlery, glasses or hands.
When we have the flu, we feel pain throughout the body, high fever (over 380C) sore throat, dry cough, tiredness, runny nose, stuffy nose, loss of appetite, chills, headaches and sometimes we can't even get out of bed. The worst flu symptoms usually last 3-5 days, but other symptoms such as coughing and tiredness may take longer to go away. These symptoms are a response of our body trying to destroy the viruses that are bothering us.
When we have the flu, we need to rest a lot
There are no specific medicines to cure the flu, but there are other medicines that alleviate its symptoms. Getting plenty of rest and drinking plenty of fluids are excellent measures to improve symptoms. Some medications (such as pain relievers, antipyretics for fever, and cough suppressants) also help relieve the discomfort of the flu.
Prevention is the best way to not get the flu. Here are some ways to prevent this virus:
v Get the flu shot.By getting the flu vaccine, you will be protected from the influenza virus. However, you won't be free from catching a cold;
v Wash hands thoroughly. By washing your hands you will get rid not only of the flu, but of many other infections;
v Maintaining a healthy diet and doing physical activities are measures that strengthen our immune system (responsible for fighting all foreign bodies that cause illnesses and infections);
v Avoid places where there are crowds at times when the flu occurs, which is usually in winter.
The vaccine is a way to prevent the flu
Paula Louredo
Graduated in Biology
