Flu, or Influenza?

Flu or Influenza explained by Dr. Samar Syeda Nooruddin.
The flu, or Influenza, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the Influenza virus. Symptoms of the flu can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, fatigue, and headache.

The flu can be a serious illness, particularly for people who are at higher risk of complications, such as older adults, young children, pregnant women, and people with certain chronic medical conditions. Complications of the flu can include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus and ear infections, and worsening of existing medical conditions such as asthma or heart failure.

The flu is spread through respiratory droplets that are released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be spread by touching surfaces or objects that have been contaminated with the virus and then touching one’s own mouth, nose or eyes.

One of the most effective ways to prevent the flu is through vaccination. The flu vaccine is a shot that helps to protect against the most common strains of the Influenza virus. The vaccine is typically administered once a year, typically in the fall, before the start of the flu season.

The flu vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus. These antibodies help to protect the person from infection if they are exposed to the flu virus. It’s important to note that even if you get the flu after receiving the vaccine, the illness is usually milder, and the risk of complications is lower than in unvaccinated individuals.

It’s important to note that the flu vaccine is not 100% effective, but it’s still the best way to protect yourself and others from the flu. The vaccine’s effectiveness can vary depending on the person’s age and health status and how well the vaccine is matched to the circulating