Influenza, or flu → disease that attacks respiratory system.
- most people recover from this disease within 2 weeks.
- Sometimes influenza → can lead to complications such as pneumonia (lung infection).
- Influenza → caused by influenza virus
Cause:
- Caused by influenza virus
How is it Transmitted:
- Transmitted through → respiratory droplets in air
- When person touches an object or surface contaminated with virus and then touches his or her own mouth, nose, eyes
Signs and Symptoms:
- Produces signs and symptoms of high fever, headache, stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, muscle aches
Methods to Reduce Transmission of Influenza Virus
- Get influenza vaccination. Annual Vaccination is recommended.
- Avoid coming into close contact → with people who have the flu. If you are sick, keep your distance from others to prevent them from getting infected too.
- If you are sick → cover mouth and nose with tissue when you cough/sneeze + dispose of the used tissue properly.
- Wear surgical mask if you are not feeling well.
- Wash hands with soap and water / rub with disinfectant → if you think you have touched objects that are likely to be contaminated with virus.
- avoid touching eyes, nose, mouth. Viruses → often spread when person touches something that is contaminated with viruses that cause flu and then touches his/her eyes, nose, mouth.
- Take antiviral drugs → prescribed by doctor → treat the illness.