INFLUENZA

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a viral contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, bronchi, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Each year flu causes millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and tens of thousands of deaths in the United States. Influenza is caused by four types of viruses: A, B, C, and D. In the United States, seasonal flu is mainly caused by Influenza A and B. Influenza A is the only type known to cause flu pandemics worldwide. Influenza C usually causes mild illness and does not lead to human epidemics. Influenza D primarily affects cattle and is not known to infect humans..

How Influenza Spreads. Influenza viruses are primarily spread by tiny droplets released when individuals with the flu cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of nearby people. It can also spread by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching one’s mouth, nose, or possibly eyes..

SYMPTOMS OF INFLUENZA. Fever. Runny nose and dry cough.

Children under 5, especially those under 2 years old. Pregnant women Those 65 and older People with chronic conditions such as People with asthma, diabetes, heart disease, COPD, or other chronic lung diseases, or a weakened immune system People who live or work in facilities with many other residents, such as nursing homes, hospitals, or schools..

pneumonia Sinus and ear infections bronchitis myocarditis worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes Sepsis.

Preventing Influenza. Vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza. The safe and effective vaccines have been used for more than 60 years. Immunity from vaccination goes away over time so annual vaccination is recommended to protect against influenza. Other ways to prevent influenza: Wearing a mask washing hands frequently with soap covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing staying home when feeling unwell avoiding close contact with sick people avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them.

Rest: Whether you are taking care of your child, family member, or resident make sure the person you’re caring for is comfortable and getting plenty of rest. If you can, make a “sick room” for people who are ill to keep them away from healthy people. Your “sick room” should have windows to help with airflow. Hydrating: Staying hydrated is very important in getting better from the flu. Give clear fluids like tea, water, or even popsicles in small amounts often. However, if the person is vomiting, do not give any fluid or food for at least an hour. Continue to nurse or bottle feed your baby. as babies get all the fluid they need from breastfeeding or formula. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. Medicate: You can reduce fever and other flu symptoms with basic non-prescription medicines such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce fever and help with sore throat and other symptoms. Stay home: If you get sick stay home or keep yourself away from others and keep sick people at home as well. Wear a mask to cover your nose and mouth to prevent you from getting sick..

When to get medical help. Fast breathing or difficulty breathing Bluish lips or face Chest pain Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk) Dehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when children crying ) Seizures Fever above 104 degrees Fahrenheit that is not controlled by fever-reducing medicine Dizziness, weakness and confusion In children younger than 12 weeks, and fever Severe muscle pain Fever or cough that improves but then returns or worsens Worsening of chronic medical conditions..