Influenza Virus
The Ever-Changing Influenza Virus
Since flu can be quite deadly, we should always get ready
to find out what you can do to keep the influenza virus out
of your home and keep our family away from it.
While flu symptoms often mimic the symptoms of a nasty cold,
the influenza virus can cause more severe respiratory symptoms
which will result in complications that may require hospitalization.
Due to the potential for serious and even life-threatening
complications, we should learn how to prevent the influenza
virus before it becomes a problem. If you have any family
members who are considered high risk due to age or chronic
conditions, prevention is always better than cure.
Keeping The Flu Away
Sadly, the influenza viruses are constantly changing from
time to time. This constant change or mutation which allows
the virus to escape the immune system, since immunities which
are built up over one flu season may not be enough to fight
the new strains of the following season. This is the reason
that a person can continue to suffer come down with the flu
year after year.
In fact, you can protect yourself from the flu most effectively
by getting an influenza vaccination every year. The vaccinations
are updated every year and this is why they include the most
current influenza virus strains. If you get your annual flu
shot, you can be sure that even if a particular strain of
influenza virus works its way past your immune system, your
body will be much better equipped to fight it. The result
will be gentler symptoms and lower risk of complications if
you do end up with a strain of influenza virus.
The Symptoms of The Flu
Symptoms of the flu often imitate those of a bad cold, with
a difference in severity of the symptoms. The influenza virus
will usually come along with a high fever and extreme fatigue
and muscle aches. The other symptoms are such as a cough,
nasal congestion and a sore throat. Stomach upset is not a
common symptom of the influenza virus, and it is usually found
in children more often than adults. The flu bug will usually
stick around for a week or two, unless complications like
ear or sinus infections arise.
The Treatment
Home treatment you can do is such as bed rest, fluids, and
over-the-counter medications for aches, fever and congestion.
A humidifier and an extra pillow under your head will make
it easier for you to sleep at night. If symptoms worsen or
new symptoms appear, consult your doctor immediately..
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