The truth about the FLU

What is Influenza?

The flu is an acute respiratory illness caused by viruses A or B. It effects the respiratory or gastrointestinal systems. The flu lasts couple weeks but can be life threatening.

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Facts:

  • The flu is highly contagious
  • It can last 1-2 weeks and recover or can be life threatening
  • Reasons why healthy people are dying from the flu is due to the immune system fighting the flu can end in shock, in organ failure and death
  • The issue with the pneumonia and the dangers of it is that once your body fights the flu for the 4-5 days you feel better but then suddenly get really sick again in which is the bacterial pneumonia and this is what causes hospitalization or death
  • The flu vaccine is 60% effective but those who have received the vaccine and do get the flu are the cases least likely to be at risk of hospitalization or death
  • 34 million people having been infected with the flu virus

Those most at risk include:

  • Very young, under 5
  • Older than 65
  • pregnant
  • Those with an underlying illness
  • Those with compromised immune system

Symptoms/warning signs to look for in children:

  • Difficulty breathing or labored breathing
  • Cyonotic skin (bluish skin)
  • Unable to hold down fluids
  • Lethargic or difficulty arousing
  • Pneumonia

Symptoms/warning signs to look for adults:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Pain or pressure in chest or abdomen/stomach
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Severe vomiting

What can you do to prevent the risk of contracting the flu:

  • Hand washing as often as possible
  • Getting vaccinated with the flu vaccine
  • Staying away from anyone who may or does have the flu

 

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