What is the Flu? The flu, or influenza, is a respiratory infection caused by type A and type B influenza viruses that occurs mostly in the winter. Influenza is an highly contagious virus that usually enters 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 anyone nearby. In most cases school-age children are the first to get the flu, and then they carry it home and soon spreads to the rest of the family. In a mild flu season, about 10% to 15% of the population becomes infected. In a more severe flu season, 20% or more 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. The flu is usually more severe, with the sudden onset of high fever and the addition of aches and pains. The flu usually starts suddenly and may include these symptoms:

• Fever (usually high)
• Headache
• Tiredness (can be extreme)
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Diarrhea and vomiting also can occur but are 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 3 to 5 days. Afterwards, the person will recover fully, but cough and tiredness may persist for days or weeks. 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 have a chronic disease, you should visit your doctor at the first sign of flu symptoms.

Can the flu be cured with antibiotics?

No. 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 a major public health problem.

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