Influenza, also known as the flu, is a viral infection of the respiratory tract and is characterized by sudden onset of high fever, prostration, myalgia, headache, cough, and weakness. While Influenza is not fully understood, it is still believed that the virus infects the upper respiratory tract and that the resulting inflammation leads to secondary bacterial infection. While there is no natural "cure," there have been attempts to ensure that all vulnerable people receive what is known as the flu shot each year.
Symptoms Of The Flu
Influenza is a respiratory disease that is spread by influenza viruses. Some of the symptoms include:
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Weakness.
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Fever.
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Aches.
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Headaches.
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Tiredness.
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Diarrhea.
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Vomiting.
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Coughing.
In most cases, Influenza will pass within a week or two, and no medical care is necessary. The symptoms can be severe for some people, resulting in needing hospital treatment. This is why the vaccination has become so widespread and is recommended for those vulnerable to infection.
How is Influenza Spread?
The spread of Influenza is a common concern, especially in the winter months. During the Northern Hemisphere's winter season, it lasts from October to May, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it lasts from April to September.
While there is little you can do to avoid catching it, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of becoming ill. If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contacting others to keep from spreading the illness. It is extremely easy to spread as tiny drops of liquid spread the flu when someone coughs, sneezes, or talks. This means that once there is an outbreak, it can move through the population rapidly.
What Is The Influenza Vaccine?
The influenza vaccine is an injection that is used to prevent the spread of Influenza. To protect against seasonal variations, doctors recommend visiting clinics near your location that specialize in administering the shot. This shot helps you stay healthy by avoiding the flu. It contains a small amount of either chicken or egg protein, which helps your body make antibodies against the flu. The antibodies attack the virus and stop you from getting sick.
Why Should You Get The Shot?
Simply put, everyone over six months of age can receive the shot. With the new flu season right around the corner, many of us wonder whether or not we should get the flu shot. While the flu shot can't guarantee that you won't get sick, it will significantly reduce the chances of getting the flu. It's not a fun prospect, but getting the shot is one of the best things you can do for your health. While the vaccine isn't a perfect defense against the flu, it does help to protect you.
As flu vaccines vary in effectiveness, they are about 60 percent effective (this varies depending on the type of vaccine and the time of year), which means they reduce your risk of getting the flu (and possibly other issues) substantially. Generally, people recover from Influenza within a week or so, but those at higher risk of developing complications due to the flu should seek medical attention.
Are There Any Side Effects?
People have been getting flu shots for over a decade now. But even today, the question remains: do flu shots cause side effects? There is a fear among some people that the side effects of a flu shot will be too great. There is nothing unusual about feeling nervous about vaccinations; the whole point of taking them is to introduce an unknown substance into your body. But many, many people have gotten a flu shot and never had a problem. The most common side effects are mild versions of the flu symptoms themselves and should disappear after a day or two.
Who Should Avoid It?
While this is no way medical advice, and you should always consult with your physician before taking any unilateral action, some people might want to consider abstaining from the shot. Those with allergies to the flu or some of the ingredients in the vaccine itself. Despite this, it is safe for most people. However, people with allergies to eggs should make their doctor aware of their allergies to ensure they can find a suitable alternative.
Many people benefit from getting a flu shot. For starters, it's not as bad as you think. Flu shots aren't nearly as painful as most people think they are; there is only a very mild pinch or sting. But even if you do feel a little pain, it'll be worth it in the long run.
