Influenza (flu)

 

Influenza (flu) is a respiratory infection caused by different viruses. The viruses pass through the air and enter your body through your nose or mouth.

 

 

The flu can be serious or even deadly. It commonly affects:

1. Elderly people

2. Newborn babies

3. People with certain chronic illnesses

 

 

Symptoms of the flu come suddenly and are worse than those of the common cold. They may include:

1. Body or muscle aches

2. Chills

3. Cough

4. Fever

5. Headache

6. Sore throat

 

 

1. Most people with the flu recover on their own without medical care.

2. People with mild cases of the flu should stay home and avoid contact with others, except to get medical care.

3. Your doctor may prescribe medicine to help your body fight the infection and lessen symptoms.

4. The best way to prevent the flu is to get a yearly flu vaccine.

5. Good hygiene, including hand washing, can also help.