Learn about influenza, its symptoms, prevention methods, and the importance of vaccination. Protect yourself and your family during flu season with these essential tips.

A Personal Story: How Emily Avoided Flu Complications

Last year, Emily skipped her annual flu shot, thinking she would not caught the flu before. However, a few weeks into flu season, she developed severe fatigue, fever, and body aches. What she thought was a mild cold turned into influenza that kept her bedridden for two weeks. After that experience, Emily now gets vaccinated every year, ensuring her health and that of her family are protected.

Emily’s story highlights how influenza can catch anyone off guard and why prevention is essential.

What Is Influenza (Flu)?

The flu or officially influenza is an acute viral disease affecting the respiratory tract which is caused by influenza viruses. The disease is contagious and can spread through the air when an infected person expresses himself through a cough, sneeze, or a simple conversation.

Most people get better in a week or two but the flu can lead to other complications, especially among children, the elderly and anyone with a weakened immune system.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Influenza

While the flu has some of the features of the common cold, the basic difference is that the flu is much worse. Common flu symptoms include:

• High fever
• Chills and body aches
• Fatigue and weakness
• Dry cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Headache

There are times when flu can result in pneumonia, sinusitis, or a worsening of chronic conditions such as asthma or diabetes.

How to Prevent Influenza

The best way to avoid the flu is prevention. Here are key strategies to reduce your risk:

• Get Vaccinated: The best form of protection against the flu and ways of reducing its severity for those who are infected occasionally is the flu shots taken once every year.
• Practice Good Hygiene: You should use soap and warm water to wash your hands often and under strict personal hygiene conditions. Do not touch your face particularly the eyes, the nose and the mouth part of the body.
• Avoid Close Contact: Avoid contact with other people and avoid going to work or social events when feeling unwell as this only helps to spread the virus.
• Boost Your Immune System: Take a balanced diet and be active; do not neglect your body by staying away from foods that will not nourish your body and keep your blood flowing the way it should.
• Use Masks During Flu Season: Using a face mask, particularly in crowded environments presents a certain level of protection against respiratory droplets.

What to Do If You Catch the Flu

Symptoms you can use to know that you have caught the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or congested nose, body or muscle aches, headaches, and fatigue.

If you or a loved one develop flu symptoms, follow these steps:

• Rest and Hydrate: Many people experience some general symptoms, including fatigue and dehydration so make sure you get enough sleep and drink water.
• Take Antiviral Medications: When advised, then antiviral medications can reduce the period of manifestation of the signs and lessen the risk of developing serious ill health conditions.
• Monitor Symptoms: Look for symptoms of worsening, including shortness of breath or chest pain and contact your doctor if necessary.

Flu Vaccination: Who Should Get It?

Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone aged six months and older, especially:

• Pregnant women
• Young children
• Elderly individuals
• Patients with a chronic illness

Vaccination not only safeguards yourself but also saves your fellow citizens from influenza in your society.

Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones This Flu Season

Influenza may be common, but its complications can be severe. By vaccinating and practising good hygiene, you can reduce your risk and protect those around you.

At LeanCare Health, we bring wellness, compassion, and integrity to healthcare. Contact us at https://leancarehealth.com/contact-us/ or follow us on https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558545751469&sk=about and https://www.instagram.com/leancarehealth/ for tips on staying healthy all year round.