The Flu or a Cold ?

Influenza (Flu) is a contagious viral infection that effects our respiratory system. It usually starts like a common cold – sore throat, runny nose and sneezing but could have other symptoms like muscle aches, chills, weakness, headache and cough.

The virus travels through air droplets when an infected person sneezes or coughs. We would inhale this directly or pick this up from an object where it had landed. The strains keep mutating every season. So, if you have had flu before, antibodies will be present in your body however they might not be able to prevent the new virus 100% but only shorten the severity of the infection. Same effect will be for the vaccine also.

Flu would usually last for 10 days and goes away without any lingering effects. However, for children and adult with high risk, flu could develop Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Asthma flareup and ear infection.

Flu can be treated at home by taking antivirals to reduce the time of sickness and reduce any serious issues. If there are certain symptoms like dizziness, seizure or severe muscle pain, it is advisable to see your physician.

Center for Disease Control recommends that everyone ages 6 months and up should get flu vaccines every year. The spread of infection can be managed by Washing hands frequently, covering your cough and sneeze, avoid touching face, keep the surfaces sanitized and avoid crowded places if possible.

World Health Organization recommends annual vaccination for: