What is Influenza?
The flu, or influenza, is a respiratory infection caused by the type A and type B influenza viruses that occur mostly in the winter. Influenza is a highly contagious virus, typically entering the body through mucous membranes in the mouth, nose or eyes. When a person carrying the influenza virus coughs or sneezes, the virus becomes airborne and can be inhaled by anybody in close proximity. In the majority of cases, school-age children are the first to get the flu, and then they carry it home, spreading it to the rest of their family. In a mild flu season, about 10% to 15% of the population will become infected. In a more severe flu season, more than 20% of the population can suffer from the flu.
What's the difference between the flu and a common cold?
Both the flu and a cold are viral infections that cause symptoms such as coughing and a sore throat. A cold is a minor viral infection of the nose and throat, while the flu is usually more severe, with the sudden onset of a high fever and the addition of aches and pains. The flu usually starts suddenly and may include symptoms such as:
- Fever (usually high)
- Headaches
- Tiredness (can be extreme)
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches
- Diarrhoea and vomiting (more common in children)
Is the flu dangerous?
A bad case of the flu will probably send a healthy adult or child to bed for three to five days. However, once the virus resides you should make a full recovery, although coughs and fatigue can often remain for a short period of time. Nonetheless, the flu can be a serious illness. People over the age of 50 and those of all ages with chronic illnesses (such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma and HIV) are more likely to become seriously ill with the flu. These people are also more likely to go on to develop other serious infections, such as pneumonia. If you are elderly or are suffering from a chronic disease, you should visit your doctor as soon as the initial signs of flu are observed. In very rare cases, where patients have additional existing health complications, the flu can prove fatal so it is important to always be careful.
Can the flu be cured with antibiotics?
Because the flu is a viral infection, it cannot be treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics are medicines that kill bacteria and are therefore only useful for treating bacterial infections. If your doctor does not think that you need antibiotics to treat your infection, do not insist. Inappropriate use of antibiotics contributes to the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria, which is gradually becoming a medical concern.
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