Influenza is a viral infection that affects the lungs, nose and throat. It is an infectious respiratory disease whose symptoms range from mild to severe. The symptoms of influenza and the common cold are similar. flu More severe and last longer than the common cold.
Anyone can catch the flu, but some people are at a higher risk of infection, including children younger than 5 years old and adults age 65 or older, according to the site. HEALTHLINE.
The risk of contracting influenza also increases if the person has a weak immune system or a chronic condition, such as heart disease, kidney disease, type 1 or 2 diabetes.
Flu symptoms
Sore throat, sneezing, and runny nose. Symptoms often worsen as the virus progresses and may include:
Fever, aching muscles, chills, sweating, headache, dry cough, nasal congestion, fatigue, weakness.
Flu usually doesn’t require a visit to a doctor. Symptoms often improve with home treatment within about a week You can relieve symptoms with over-the-counter cold and flu medicines It is also important to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids..
However, some people are more likely to develop complications from influenza. Groups at risk include those who are children under 2 years old, 65 years or older, pregnant or recently had children, 18 years or younger and take aspirin, have a chronic condition, such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, or a virus. Human immunodeficiency
Flu complications
Most people recover from the flu without complications. But sometimes a secondary infection can develop, such as, pneumonia, bronchitis, ear infection. If symptoms disappear and then return after a few days, you may have a secondary infection. See a doctor if you suspect a secondary infection, if left untreated, pneumonia can be life-threatening..
Types of influenza viruses that exist
There are three different types of influenza viruses that infect humans: Type A, Type B, and Type C (there is a fourth type, Type D, that does not affect humans.), Humans and animals can be infected with type C A Because the influenza virus can be transmitted from animals to humans, this virus changes constantly and can cause annual flu epidemics, influenza can cause type B Also, seasonal outbreaks occur during the winter months. However, this type is usually less severe than type A and causes milder symptoms. Sometimes, type B can cause serious complications. The type cannot be transmitted B Except from humans to humans, influenza type infects C Humans and some animals also cause mild symptoms and few complications.
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