Influenza is preventable, controllable and treatable! Read these influenza knowledge carefully

Flu, the full name of influenza, is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by influenza virus. It is different from the common cold and has a stronger infectiousness and a higher risk of complications.

Every year, influenza causes a large number of cases around the world, and even leads to serious health problems and death. Therefore, it is particularly important to understand the basic knowledge, prevention measures and coping methods of influenza.

1. Basic knowledge of influenza

1. Types of influenza viruses

Experts from Liling Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital said that influenza viruses are mainly divided into Type A (A), Type B (B) and Type C (C). Among them, Type A and Type B influenza viruses are the main pathogens that cause seasonal influenza. Type A influenza viruses have strong mutation capabilities and are prone to cause pandemics, while Type B influenza viruses mutate more slowly and usually cause local outbreaks.

2. Transmission channels

Flu is mainly transmitted through droplets. When an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks, the virus will spread to others through droplets in the air. In addition, the flu virus can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces (such as door handles, tabletops, etc.). If your hands touch the virus and then touch your mouth, nose or eyes, it may also cause infection.

3. Main symptoms

Typical symptoms of the flu include:

①High fever (usually over 38°C);

②Cough and sore throat;

③ Muscle aches and fatigue all over the body;

④Headache and chills;

④Some patients may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

Flu symptoms are usually more severe than the common cold, and they start more quickly and last longer.

2. Prevention of influenza

1. Get a flu shot

Flu vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza. Every year, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the vaccine ingredients for the year based on the global prevalence of influenza viruses. Flu vaccines can significantly reduce the risk of influenza infection and alleviate symptoms after infection. It is recommended that high-risk groups such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, patients with chronic diseases and medical staff receive flu vaccines every year.

2. Maintain good hygiene habits

① Wash your hands frequently, especially after touching public items, before eating, and after coughing or sneezing.

②Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with your hands.

③ When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow to avoid the spread of droplets.

④ Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, mobile phones, keyboards, etc.

3. Maintain social distance

During the peak influenza season, try to avoid crowded places, especially confined spaces. Keep a certain distance from influenza patients to reduce the risk of infection.

4. Enhance immunity

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help boost your immunity and reduce your risk of contracting the flu .

①Get enough sleep;

② Eat a balanced diet and take in enough vitamins and minerals;

③Exercise moderately to enhance physical fitness;

④Avoid excessive fatigue and stress.

3. Response to influenza

1. Seek medical attention promptly

If you have flu-like symptoms, especially severe symptoms such as high fever and difficulty breathing, you should seek medical attention immediately. The doctor will determine whether it is influenza based on the symptoms and laboratory test results and give appropriate treatment recommendations.

2. Antiviral drugs

For influenza patients, especially those in high-risk groups, doctors may prescribe antiviral drugs (such as oseltamivir, mabaloxavir, etc.). These drugs can shorten the course of the disease, alleviate symptoms, and reduce the risk of complications. However, antiviral drugs should be used within 48 hours of onset for the best effect. If high-risk groups do not receive timely antiviral treatment within 48 hours, they are prone to develop pneumonia.

3. Home isolation and rest

After being diagnosed with influenza, patients should try to isolate themselves at home and avoid contact with others to prevent the spread of the virus. At the same time, getting enough rest and drinking plenty of water will help the body recover.

4. Monitor the condition

Flu patients should closely monitor their condition, especially the elderly, children, pregnant women and those with chronic diseases. If they experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, and persistent high fever, they should seek medical attention immediately.

4. Differences between influenza and the common cold

Many people confuse influenza with the common cold, but there are significant differences between the two in terms of pathogens, symptoms, and severity:

5. Complications of influenza

① Pneumonia (bacterial or viral) is the most common. People with lung and cardiovascular diseases may experience rapid deterioration and life-threatening conditions;

② Myocarditis: fulminant myocarditis can be life-threatening;

③ Encephalitis or meningitis;

④ Otitis media;

⑤ Worsening of chronic diseases (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, etc.).

Influenza is a common respiratory infectious disease. Although most patients can recover on their own, it may pose a serious health threat to high-risk groups. The occurrence of influenza can be effectively prevented through measures such as vaccination, maintaining good hygiene habits, and enhancing immunity.

Once infected with influenza, you should seek medical attention in time, follow the doctor's advice for treatment, and pay attention to isolation and rest to avoid spreading it to others. During the peak influenza season, each of us should be vigilant, take protective measures, and work together to resist the invasion of influenza and protect the health of ourselves and others.

Hunan Medical Chat Special Author: Peng Liping, Department of Gastroenterology and Infectious Diseases, Liling Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital

Follow @湖南医聊 to get more health science information!

(Edited by YT)