These days, there's a flu everywhere! Should we know exactly what this 'flu' is?

You've probably heard the word "flu" many times, right? Sometimes, especially during the rainy season, many people get this disease at once. If one person in a house gets it, sometimes the others get infected in a row. So, today, let's talk about what this "flu" really is, why it happens, and how else we can be careful. If we know exactly, there's nothing to be afraid of.

What is 'Flu'? Simply put...

"Flu" is the name we usually call it. The medical name for this is `(Influenza)` . This is a disease caused by a `(virus)`, that is, a virus. To be precise, this virus infects our nose, throat, and other parts of the respiratory system like the lungs. Now look, usually when a `(virus)` enters our body, our body's defense system starts to fight against it. As a result, something called `(antibodies)` is produced in our body. It is because of these `(antibodies)` that if that particular `(virus)` comes back to our body, we can stay away from getting sick. However, the special thing about this `(flu)` virus is that it `(mutates)`, that is, it changes its nature every year . This is like a thief in disguise.

That's why you can't assume that having the flu once means you won't get it again for the rest of your life. Every year, a new "disguised" virus can come along.

Some years, the change in this virus may be small. Then, even if you get the "flu", it will not feel as bad. The antibodies that have been produced in the body from the previous "flu" provide some protection. However, some years, this "flu" virus undergoes a big change. That's when many people get very sick, sometimes even having to be hospitalized.

What is the peak season for flu?

The flu virus usually causes the most illness during the cold months of the year. In countries like America, the period from October to May is considered the "flu season". In our country, it is more common during the rainy season and towards the end of the year . The flu is most common in young children. However, it is important to remember that anyone of any age can get it.

How is the flu transmitted?

This is something that most people know. The flu virus is mainly spread through the air . For example, when someone with the flu sneezes, coughs, or talks, tiny droplets containing the virus are released into the air. Another way is if a healthy person touches something that someone with the flu has touched or sneezed on (such as a doorknob, pen, or toy) and then touches their mouth or nose with that dirty hand, the virus can enter their body.

The most important thing is that a person infected with the virus can be infected a day before symptoms begin.You can spread it to someone else. That means you can still spread it to someone else even if you don't know you have the flu. This can happen for up to a week.

Viruses like the flu spread very easily in places like schools. Then, when children get home, they can infect their families and neighbors, spreading the disease throughout the community.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

"Flu" symptoms usually begin about two days after exposure to the virus. The main symptoms are:

• Headache : A severe headache may occur.
• Sore throat : The throat hurts and it feels difficult to swallow.
• Sudden high fever: The body becomes hot and a high fever suddenly comes on.
• Feeling cold/ shivering : Along with the fever, the body feels cold and sometimes shivers.
• Body pain : The whole body, especially the muscles, hurts. Some people say it feels like "the flesh is being ripped out of my body."
• Nasal congestion : The nose is blocked, making it difficult to breathe.
• Dry cough : A painful, dry cough without phlegm.
• Extreme fatigue /weakness: Feeling extremely tired, lifeless, and unable to get out of bed.
• Anorexia : Losing all interest in eating.

Fever and body aches usually go away in a few days. However, sore throat, cough, stuffy nose, and fatigue can last a week or more. Some people with the flu may also experience symptoms such as vomiting, stomach cramps , and diarrhea . However, if you have only vomiting and diarrhea without any other flu symptoms, you may have a condition called gastroenteritis . Some people also call this the stomach flu. However, this is different from the flu, which is caused by the influenza virus. Gastroenteritis is usually caused by other common viruses that we encounter every day.

How to know for sure if you have the flu? (Diagnosis)

Your symptoms are moreA doctor can usually tell if you have the flu by looking at your symptoms. Most people with the flu look very sick and miserable. However, there are other infections that can cause symptoms similar to the flu. So if a doctor wants to be sure it's the flu, they can do a test . This involves taking a sample of mucus from your nose or throat using a long cotton swab. Some tests give you results right away, while others take a while to get to a lab.

Is it dangerous to get the flu?

If you get the flu, it can be really bad, but it's usually not that serious . Healthy young people rarely develop complications from the flu. However, adults over 65, children under 5, and people with other long-term illnesses (such as diabetes, heart disease, and asthma) are more likely to get seriously ill from the flu. This is because they have a weakened immune system or are at higher risk of complications due to pre-existing conditions.

What should I do if I get the flu?

If you have the flu, the best way to take care of yourself is to stay in bed and get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids (such as water and non-caffeinated drinks, such as tea, cilantro, soup) . Stay home from school/work until you feel better and your fever is normal. This will give you rest and prevent you from spreading the illness to others. Most people get better on their own once the virus has cleared from their bodies. However, if you have the flu and have any of the following symptoms, you should see a doctor :

• If your situation is getting worse instead of better.
• If you have difficulty breathing .
• If you have other chronic medical conditions (such as ``Diabetes Mellitus'', heart disease, ``Asthma'', lung diseases).

Let's also learn about medicines.

Many young people can take painkillers such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen to reduce fever and body aches.

However, here's something to keep in mind: It's not a good idea for children and young adults to take aspirin or any medicine that contains aspirin when they have the flu. Doing so could put them at risk of a rare but serious condition called Reye's syndrome.

Many people think that taking antibiotics will cure the flu. But that's not true. Antibiotics work against bacterial infections, not viruses like the flu. Therefore, antibiotics don't help with the flu. Sometimes, doctors prescribe antibiotics to shorten the duration of the flu.Antiviral medicine may be prescribed. These medications only work against certain types of flu viruses, and are most effective if taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. Doctors usually give these medications to very young children, the elderly, or people who are at risk for serious complications, such as asthma.

Can you prevent getting the flu?

There is no way to prevent the flu 100% of the time. However, getting a flu vaccine can help. It is recommended that everyone over the age of 6 months get this vaccine every year . The flu vaccine comes as a shot and as a nasal spray. Both work equally well. Get the vaccine your doctor recommends. However, people with weakened immune systems, those with certain health conditions (such as asthma), and pregnant women should not get the nasal spray vaccine. What else can you do?

• Wash your hands thoroughly and often. Apply soap and rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid sharing things like cups, dishes, and towels with others.
• If you have the flu, use a tissue when you cough or sneeze. This can help prevent the spread of the virus. Throw used tissues in the trash. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow.

Finally, things to remember (Take-Home Message)

If you get the flu this time, don't panic. Take good care of yourself and follow your doctor's instructions. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor. When you feel unwell, remember that the flu usually gets better in a week or less, and you will soon be back to normal.

Most importantly, getting the flu vaccine and practicing good hygiene (especially hand washing) will go a long way in protecting yourself from this disease. Stay safe everyone!

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