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What System Does the Flu Affect?

The flu typically lasts from November through March. Different strains of the flu emerge each year, requiring yearly vaccinations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu affects 5 to 20 percent of the U.S. population each flu season, with over 200,000 people hospitalized because of it.

  1. Definition

    • Flu is short for the contagious disease known as influenza. According to the Mayo Clinic, influenza is a viral condition that affects the respiratory system, specifically the nose, throat, bronchial tubes and lungs.

    Symptoms

    • According to Medline Plus, flu symptoms include body aches, fatigue, headaches, fever, dry cough, sore throat and stuffy nose. The CDC states children often suffer additional symptoms like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

    Potential Risks

    • Influenza in healthy adults will make a person feel miserable, but the virus will run its course and leave the body. In severe cases, serious respiratory conditions such as sinusitis, bronchitis and bacterial pneumonia might result.

    Treatment

    • In most flu cases, bed rest, drinking plenty of water and taking a cough suppressant and a pain reliever/fever reducer will relieve symptoms as the virus runs it course. In more serious cases, a doctor may prescribe antiviral medications such as oseltamivir or zanamivir, which are recommended for H1N1 treatment by the CDC.

    Prevention

    • Influenza is spread through the respiratory system, primarily through the mouth and nose. To help prevent spreading the virus, minimize contact with sick people, wash your hands frequently, sneeze and cough into disposable tissues, do not share utensils or drinks and clean frequently handled items often.

    Considerations

    • If you exhibit cold-like or flu-like symptoms during flu season, consult your doctor and limit your contact with others.

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