Flu
FAQ
What is the flu?
The flu, or influenza, is a respiratory infection caused by
type A and type B influenza viruses that occurs mostly in fall
and winter. It’s highly contagious and usually enters
the body through mucous membranes in the mouth, nose or eyes.
When a person with the flu coughs or sneezes, the virus becomes
airborne and can be inhaled by anyone nearby. In most communities,
school-age children are the first to get the flu, and then they
carry it home and to other group activities.
What's the difference between the
flu and a cold?
Both the flu and a cold are viral infections that cause symptoms
such as coughing and sore throat. A cold is a minor viral
infection of the nose and throat. The flu is usually more
severe, with the sudden onset of high fever and the addition
of aches and pains. For more on the flu, use our handy checklist
of symptoms.
How do I know if I have the flu?
The flu generally strikes 1 to 3 days after exposure to the
virus and can seem sudden—a feeling people often describe
as "being knocked on their butt." Common flu symptoms
include sudden onset of fever and chills, cough, muscle pain,
headache, fatigue and weakness, stuffy nose and sore throat.
Is the flu dangerous?
A bad case of the flu will probably send a healthy adult or
child to bed for 3 to 5 days. Afterwards, the person will
recover fully, but cough and tiredness may persist for days
or weeks. Nonetheless, the flu can be a serious illness. Each
year, up to 60 million Americans develop the flu and more
than 200,000 are hospitalized.
Can the flu be cured with antibiotics?
No. Because the flu is a viral infection, it cannot be treated
with antibiotics. Antibiotics are medicines that kill bacteria
and are, therefore, only useful for treating bacterial infections.
Can over-the-counter drugs be taken
to fight the flu?
Some people believe that over-the-counter drugs can treat
the flu; however, these drugs only minimize the symptoms without
treating the cause of influenza. Over the counter medications
can ease you’re suffering.
Keep your distance,
If possible, from people who have the flu, as the virus is
spread when a person with the flu coughs or sneezes, wash
your hands frequently. You can usually spot someone with the
flu because it’s pretty hard to hide when your feeling
miserable, with sneezing and coughing fits.
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