Flu-Fighting Tips: How to Stay Healthy During Cold and Flu Season

Influenza, or the flu, is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system and can lead to serious complications, particularly in older adults, young children, and those with weakened immune systems. With the flu season fast approaching, it's important to take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from getting sick. In this blog, we'll explore the causes of the flu, its symptoms, and ways to prevent and treat it.

What is influenza (flu)?

Influenza (flu) is a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract, The flu is usually spread by breathing in droplets from coughs and sneezes that contain the virus .

What are some symptoms of influenza (flu)?

• High fever (38°C or more)

• A dry cough , sore throat

• Body aches, Fatigue, Chills

• Aching behind the eyes

• Loss of appetite

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Some times associated with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

The symptoms of COVID-19 and the flu can be similar. Influenza and other kinds of viruses can only be confirmed by a doctor after a nose or throat swab has returned positive results.

When should I see a doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing

• Chest pain

• Sudden dizziness

• Confusion

• Severe vomiting

• Fever with a rash

Anyone at a higher risk of serious illness with flu-like symptoms should see their doctor as soon as possible, such as

• Chronic diseases in other systems (cardiac,respiratory ,renal, endocrine or metabolic, hematological and neurological)

• Immunocompromising conditions

• Children aged 6 months to 10 years on long term aspirin therapy.

Doctor consultation is very important in these cases to avoid developing complications (as pneumonia and bronchitis).

How can I avoid getting influenza (flu)?

• Getting an influenza (flu) vaccine every year is recommended for everyone aged 6 months or older (especially people with higher risk of severe complications).

• Wearing a face mask , practicing good hand hygiene and keeping social distancing measures.

Tips to aid recovery from influenza (flu):

• Rest and Stay at home until your temperature returns to normal (about 3 days) also to use its energy to fight the infection

• Drink plenty of fluids (one glass of water/ one hour)

• Take simple pain-relieving medication (such as paracetamol or ibuprofen), to relieve your fever and ease muscle pain check with your doctor or pharmacist especially if you have a chronic illness or are taking any other medication

• Antibiotics are not effective against the flu because influenza is a virus

• Antiviral medications, if started in the first 2 days after symptoms start, can shorten the length of your illness. These should be prescribed by your doctor

• Use saline nose drops or spray to help soothe or clear a stuffy nose

• Try warm, moist air inhalation

• Do not smoke – this will irritate your infected airways.

How can I avoid giving influenza (flu) to other people?

Step 1 - Cough or sneeze into your elbow because It’s a part of your body less likely to touch other surfaces.

Step 2 - Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds – especially if you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing or using the toilet.

Step 3 - Rest and stay at home For the period during which adults are contagious is usually around 3–5 days from when the first symptoms appear, and up to 7 days in younger children.