 Influenenza (commonly referred as Flu) is a viral infection that is caused by RNA viruses. If not treated on time with proper medication, Flu can prove to be fatal. In 20th century, world has seen three pandemics of flu, which has killed millions of people across the globe.
Most common symptoms of flu are:
- Chills
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Muscle pains
- Severe headache
- Cough
- Weakness in body
- General discomfort
- In some cases flu causes pneumonia too.
Spread of Flu Virus
Flu infection is contagious and is transferred through air. When someone infected with Flu virus coughs or sneezes, the flu viruses in form of aerosol gets airborne and affects to people who inhale them. Flu virus also spreads by getting in direct contact with bird droppings or nasal secretions.
Influenza Virus Classification:
Influenza Virus A
Influenza Virus B
Influenza Virus C
Of all three virus classifications, Influenza Virus A is the most deadly one. Over the years, world has witnessed fatal attacks by Influenza Virus A. In all three pandemics, a new strain of viruses has emerged and has killed millions across globe.
Influenza Virus A has been sub divided into following serotypes:
H1N1 (Spanish flu in 1918, and the 2009 Swine flu pandemic)
H2N2(Asian Flu in 1957)
H3N2(Hong Kong Flu in 1968)
H5N1( current pandemic threat)
H7N7
H1N2
H9N2
H7N2
H7N3
H10N7
The most common flu viruses that are a cause of global concern now days are Swine Flu virus (Caused by H1N1 viral strain of Influenza Virus A) and Avian Flu or Bird Flu virus (Caused by H5N1 viral strain of Influenza Virus A). Year 2009 has witnessed Swine Flu pandemic which has affected people across the globe.
Flu Prevention Tips
The following tips can help you prevent Flu virus affecting your body.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap.
- Avoid touching your face
- Stay away from areas infected with flu virus.
- Get vaccinated against flu
- Drink plenty of warm fluids
- Boost your immune system with proper sleep and maintaining active lifestyle.
- Eat immune-boosting food.
- If you experience flu symptoms, immediately consult a doctor.
Medication for Flu
Though vaccination against flu viruses is the only way to protect yourself against the deadly virus, Oseltamivir (commonly known as Tamiflu), is known to treat patients effectively.
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