Influenza - A Viral Infection with the Potential to Cause Further Complications

Influenza is a contagious infection, affecting many sufferers throughout the winter season. The virus serves to infect three disparate parts including the nose, throat, and lungs. Throughout the United States, tens of millions of people contract the influenza infection every year.

According to estimates, around 36,000 people die as a result of the influenza infection.

Children between 6 months and 2 years of age are at greater risk from the virus. In addition, women who are more than three months pregnant during the flu season are also prone to complications, along with anyone suffering from chronic heart conditions. In relation those with lung disease or kidney problems may suffer additional adverse effects. Those suffering diabetes or those with weak immune systems are also more susceptible.

What are the causes of Influenza?

The main cause of the Influenza virus is Influenza type A, most rife through-out winter and spring.

The Flu infection can be passed on from one person to another, through air born droplets which result from sneezing and coughing. Furthermore, if you touch an infected surface such as a door handle or phone, you run the risk of transferring the virus to your eyes or nose.

What are the symptoms of Influenza?

The most common symptoms of influenza are high fever, headache, tiredness, sore throat, dry cough, stuffy nose, muscle aches and stiffness. These symptoms are generally mild in nature and will subside once the sufferer is adequately rested, drinking plenty of fluids.

Some other symptoms include nasal discharge, shortness of breath, wheezing, cough, chills, fatigue, malaise, sweating, loss of appetite, vomiting, dizziness, and worsening of underlying illness like asthma or heart failure.

Treatments for influenza

Mild cases can be treated with adequate rest, drinking plenty of liquids, and taking recommended medicines after a full consultation with a doctor. You should particularly avoid alcohol or tobacco. In relation, Aspirin is generally not recommended for children or teenagers suffering with the infection.

The U.S. Centre for Disease Control and Prevention recommends utilize medical prescription drugs such as Tamiflu. This drug can serve to treat patients; suffering from the influenza A or influenza B type infection.

Tamiflu is used for the treatment and prevention of the flu infection. It is also administered to children, incorporating a fruit flavored liquid form. As Tamiflu is a prescribed drug, thus it should not be taken without the consent of a doctor.

Tamiflu
The U.S. Centre for Disease Control and Prevention recommends utilise medical prescription drugs such as Tamiflu. Tamiflu is a prescribed drug, thus it should not be taken without the consent of a doctor.