what is influenza ?

Influenza, often referred to as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.

1. What are the common symptoms of influenza?

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills (though not everyone with the flu has a fever)
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Some people may experience vomiting and diarrhea, although this is more common in children than adults.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can be common in other illnesses as well, and a definitive diagnosis of influenza usually requires testing. Also, some people with influenza, especially those in high-risk groups like the elderly, pregnant women, young children, and people with certain chronic medical conditions, can develop severe complications such as pneumonia.

If you have these symptoms and are concerned, it’s always a good idea to seek medical attention. It’s also a good idea to get a yearly flu vaccine to help protect yourself from influenza.

2. How is influenza transmitted from person to person?

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is primarily transmitted from person to person through the droplets that are created when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. These droplets can be directly inhaled by people nearby, usually within a range of about six feet.

It is also possible to get the flu by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it, and then touching one’s own mouth, nose, or eyes, though this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Another important factor to consider is that individuals who have been infected with the flu are usually most contagious in the first three to four days after their illness begins, but they can infect others starting from one day before symptoms develop and up to five to seven days after becoming sick. Some people, especially young children and people with weakened immune systems, might be able to infect others with flu viruses for an even longer time.

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