Description of Influenza

The flu, or influenza, is a contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 5 percent to 20 percent of Americans get the flu each year. The flu can often be treated at home, although hospitalization may be needed if there are complications.

Identification

• The flu virus is an airborne virus that is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can be inhaled or can be contracted by touching an object that has been contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose or eyes. Three types of the influenza virus, called influenza A, B and C, cause flu outbreaks. Influenza A and B viruses occur more frequently than influenza C and are the virus strains normally included in flu vaccines, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Symptoms

• Flu symptoms may include fever, sneezing, nasal congestion, headache, cough, sweating, chills, loss of appetite, fatigue, muscle aches, weakness and sore throat. Vomiting and diarrhea may occur in children and some adults who have the flu.

Treatment

• Treatment for the flu involves getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids and taking over-the-counter pain medication. Antiviral medications, such as Tamiflu or Relenza, can shorten the duration of the flu by a day or more if taken soon after you develop flu symptoms. These medications are available with a prescription from your doctor. Possible side effects of the medications include vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing and lightheadedness.

Prevention/Solution

• Flu vaccines, available in injectable and mist forms, are available each year beginning in September or October. The flu mist is approved for people 2 years of age and older who don't have weakened immune systems or chronic health problems, such as heart disease, asthma or diabetes. According to WHO, vaccines can prevent 70 percent to 90 percent of influenza-specific illnesses in healthy adults. Additional vaccines may be needed if the vaccine for a particular year does not cover a particularly widespread strain of influenza. In 2009, the CDC recommended that people receive an additional vaccination to protect against contracting the H1N1 flu strain. Once you've had a flu shot or used the flu mist, you won't be protected from the flu for the rest of your life. Because influenza types A and B mutate constantly, new vaccines are needed every year to protect against the new forms of the viruses.

Complications

• While most people recover from the flu with no lingering effects, some people develop serious complications resulting in hospitalization or even death. Possible complications of the flu include bronchitis, pneumonia, worsening of chronic health conditions, ear or sinus infections or encephalitis (brain inflammation). Complications are more likely to occur in infants, young children, people who are older than 50 and residents of long-term care facilities. Pregnant women and people with chronic health problems or weakened immune systems may also face a higher risk of complications. Working in a day care or health care facility may increase your risk of developing complications if you catch the flu.