Chinese Flu Symptoms

In 2003, Chinese flu was believed to pose a threat as a potential pandemic as it claimed the lives of five children in Great Britain. Around the world, doctors warned that hospitals must be vigilant and that all cases must be examined and reported in detail. While Chinese flu ultimately did not end up making a very big impact compared to more conventional forms of the flu--which claim the lives of thousands each year--it is still wise to recognize the symptoms of Chinese flu so that you can seek treatment as quickly and effectively as possible.

History

• Chinese flu was first discovered in China's Fujian province in 2002. It was determined to be a particularly virulent flu strain that posed a serious threat for children--more so even than regular flu. Doctors predicted using computers that this flu strain could affect six million people in the UK in 2003. However, the flu fortunately did not turn out to be quite as big a threat as was expected, although it did do some damage in Europe during that year. It continues to occur in limited numbers each flu season.

Features

• Chinese flu is basically a form of the flu virus that attacks thousands during "flu season" each year. However, with Chinese flu, the potential for complications is greater in children. Like most flu strains, Chinese flu is most often deadly when it is complicated by blood poisoning or pneumonia.

Identification

• Chinese flu can be hard to distinguish from other flu strains at first. The onset symptoms of joint pain, fever, sore throat, and headache are not much different from any other flu virus. However, particularly in children, the Chinese flu strain can quickly develop an additional set of respiratory issues that can lead to pneumonia, or it can develop into contamination that can lead to blood poisoning. Both of these problems often are ultimately fatal.

Misconceptions

• Many people think that, if they get a flu shot, they do not have to worry about the counter-contamination measures that are encouraged during flu season. They may postpone going to the doctor if they do get the flu because they believe that their illness will be less severe thanks to the shot. However, flu shots do not kill all forms of the flu virus, and mutations and virulent strains like Chinese flu can still be spread even if you did get a flu shot. Whether you think you have Chinese flu or just the plain or "creeping crud," you still need to visit a doctor so that your symptoms can be supervised. Your family and friends will then be protected.

Prevention/Solution

• The best way to prevent yourself from getting Chinese flu is to get a flu shot. In addition, avoid people with flu-like symptoms. Try to stay out of crowded areas like subways during the height of flu season, and be sure that you wash and sanitize your hands on a regular basis. Also, since international travel can increase your odds of exposure to rogue strains of all types of flu, you might want to limit your time abroad during flu season if possible.

Warning

• While Chinese flu did not evolve into the pandemic that was predicted in 2003, it is still a concern in the medical community because of its danger to children. All children should get flu shots even if their parents opt not to. If you have young children or babies in your household, everyone should be vaccinated. If you suspect that your child has the flu, take her to the doctor immediately so that you can find out what symptoms you should look for and how to best prevent them from developing into potentially fatal complications.