The flu, or influenza, is a respiratory infection caused mainly by type A and type B influenza viruses. It is most common in the fall and winter.
The flu is highly contagious; the virus usually enters the body through mucous membranes in the mouth, nose or eyes. When a person with the flu coughs or sneezes, the virus becomes airborne and can be inhaled by anyone nearby. In most communities, it is school-age children who are the first to get the flu, and then they carry it home and to other group activities. In a mild flu season, about 10% to 15% of the population become infected. In a more severe flu season, 20% or more of the population can suffer from the flu.
How do I know if I have the flu?
Flu generally strikes 1 to 3 days after exposure to the virus. The onset of flu often seems sudden: people describe feeling "like I've been hit by a truck." Common flu symptoms include sudden onset, fever and chills, cough, muscle and joint pain, headache, fatigue and weakness. Some people also get a stuffy nose and sore throat.
The flu usually strikes most commonly in fall and winter and occurs 1 - 3 days after exposure to the virus. Fever is one indicator of the flu, but fever alone is not sufficient for a flu diagnosis. Common flu symptoms in adults:
If you answer yes to the above, consult your doctor and get a diagnosis within 48 hours. After onset of symptoms, Tamiflu Prescription Treatment For Influenza should be initiated within 48 hours to be effective. In adults (and children over age 13) Tamiflu Prescription Treatment For Influenza can be given to those exposed to help decrease the likelihood of contracting the flu.
In adults over age 50 the symptoms of flu may include:
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Fever just over 99 degrees F
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In older population flu can be very serious and complications can occur and even death. Consult immediate medical help.
The Flu Can Be Dangerous
Over 40 million Americans develop the flu each year and over 150,000 are hospitalized. People with Chronic illness and older people can become seriously ill with the flu and develop pneumonia or bronchitis which can result in death. A doctor should be contacted immediately at the first signs of the flu.
Prevention Of The Flu
Annual flu shot. Each fall before the flu season starts it is important to get a flu shot to prevent getting the flu or lessen its severity. However, the vaccine is not 100% effective so even if you have received a flu shot, you could still get the flu.
If you didn't get the flu shot or until the shot takes effect, you can still protect yourself and family members from getting sick with Tamiflu Prescription Treatment For Influenza.
If someone in your household is diagnosed with the flu, you can help keep other members from getting sick:
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Taking Tamiflu within 2 days of exposure can reduce your risk of getting the flu
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Keep your distance from people with the flu
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Wash your hands frequently
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Avoid second-hand cigarette smoke
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Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a good diet, adequate sleep, low stress and lots of water.
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