Influenza is known as a seasonal viral infection and is usually transmitted through the respiratory tract. This disease, which affects millions of people around the world every year, can lead to serious complications. With conscious precautions and healthy lifestyle habits, we can protect ourselves from flu epidemics and reduce the severity of the disease. A healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of influenza by keeping the body strong. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition and adequate sleep support our immune system. At the same time, isolating from others when we are sick and following the recommendations of healthcare professionals is important in keeping the spread of the virus under control.
What is influenza?
Influenza, popularly known as flu, is a virus that affects the respiratory tract. Influenza viruses, which make millions of people sick every year, are RNA-containing viruses with a variable structure. Therefore, a new influenza virus may emerge every year. Influenza, or flu as it is commonly known, is a disease transmitted through the respiratory tract. Influenza viruses released into the air when a sick person coughs, sneezes or speaks can enter the respiratory tract of healthy people. Influenza symptoms usually begin suddenly. Here are the symptoms of Influenza:
- High fever
- Cough
- Tiredness
- muscle pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
Influenza usually goes away on its own within 1-2 weeks. However, it may cause more serious complications in some people. More serious complications may occur, especially in children, the elderly and people with chronic diseases. These complications are:
- lung inflammation
- Meningitis
- heart muscle inflammation
- Encephalitis
How is influenza treated?
The most effective method for treating influenza is to get an influenza vaccine every year. Influenza vaccine creates immunity against influenza viruses. The flu vaccine is given to create immunity against viruses and is at least 60% effective. Flu vaccination, which is usually given in September-October, is recommended for all age groups, but it is especially prioritized for children, the elderly and people with chronic diseases who are in the risk group. People who cannot get the influenza vaccine can reduce their risk of contracting the influenza virus by taking some precautions. Things that can be done to protect against flu can be listed as follows:
- washing hands frequently
- staying away from sick people
- staying home when sick
- Wearing a mask in crowded places
- avoiding contact with sick people
- Drinking plenty of fluids and getting plenty of rest
Flu is a disease that usually goes away on its own within 1-2 weeks. If your flu symptoms are severe or do not go away, you should definitely see a doctor.