Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Flu symptoms usually appear suddenly. People with the flu often experience some or all of the following signs and symptoms:
*It’s important to note that not everyone with the flu will have a fever.
How Flu Spreads
Many experts agree that flu viruses primarily spread through tiny droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can easily reach the mouths or noses of those nearby. Occasionally, someone might contract the flu by touching a contaminated surface or object and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.
Onset of Symptoms
The period between exposure to the influenza virus and the onset of symptoms is typically around two days, though it can vary from one to four days.
Preventing Seasonal Flu
The key to preventing the flu is to receive a flu vaccine annually. This vaccine significantly lowers the chances of flu-related illnesses and serious complications that could lead to hospitalization or death. Additionally, the CDC advises practicing everyday preventive measures, such as avoiding close contact with sick individuals, covering coughs and sneezes, washing hands frequently, and ensuring cleaner air to help reduce the spread of germs responsible for respiratory illnesses like the flu. For further details on essential and supplementary prevention strategies, more information is accessible.
Reference: [CDC - Key Facts About Influenza] (https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm)
