Provided as a public service
"The flu" is caused by a specific type of virus, the influenza virus. Other viruses can produce respiratory illnesses with similar symptoms but they are not "the flu".
Influenza presents as follows: rapid onset of fever, muscle aches, fatigue, dry cough, headache. Sometimes vomiting and diarrhea can accompany the illness. The rapid onset is an important part of the illness. A respiratory infection that comes on gradually and slowly gets worse is not "the flu".
Influenza viruses are labelled by looking at two proteins in them, hemagglutinase and neuraminidase. This is where the H and N in the name comes from. For example, swine flu has hemagglutinase type 1 and neuraminidase type 1 proteins in it, hence H1N1.
People with chronic medical conditions that affect their constitutional strength or immune system, along with very young children and the very old elderly are at the most risk of complications from the flu. However, due to the unpredictable nature of the virus, anyone could potentially develop serious complications such as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart) or bacterial pneumonia.
There are two vaccines this season. One has 3 strains in it to cover the usual seasonal influenza strains. The other is specific to H1N1. Despite rumours to the contrary, it is a safe vaccine with no significant toxic components and is expected to be 90-95% effective in preventing the flu.
Remember that scrupulous hand washing, getting plenty of sleep and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is a good way to prevent transmission of the flu or to minimize its effects if caught.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
That makes a lot of sense. I had a cold, but suddenly within a few hours I felt like I had been hit by a mack truck (on Wednesday afternoon)and spent 5 days at home weak as a kitten. Thanks for the information.
Post a Comment