Don’t let the flu ruin your vacation: we’re here to tell you everything you need to know | ELOLFATO.COM

Influenza is an illness caused by a virus that affects the respiratory system (nose, throat, and lungs) and can cause serious complications that require hospitalization or, in some cases, death.

At first, it may look like a common cold, with a runny nose, sneezing, and sore throat. Usually, colds develop slowly. But the flu often strikes suddenly.and Although a cold can be annoying, people often feel worse with the flu..

Common symptoms include:

• fever
• Muscle pain
• Chills and sweating
• Headache
• Persistent dry cough
• Shortness of breath
• tired and weak
• Congestion or runny nose
• sore throat
• eye pain
• Vomiting and diarrhea (this is more common in children than adults)

reason

Influenza viruses spread through the air through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. People can inhale the droplets directly. You can also be exposed to germs through objects such as your phone or computer keyboard, which can then transfer the virus to your eyes, nose, or mouth.

People infected with the virus may have been contagious for the day or so before. Symptoms appear within four days of starting. Children and people with weakened immune systems may be contagious for a little longer.

The flu vaccine is not 100% effective, so it is also important to take steps to reduce the spread of infection, such as:

handwashing: Washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is an effective way to prevent many common infections. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Avoid touching your face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing: Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your elbow. Then wash your hands.

Clean all surfaces:

Clean frequently touched surfaces regularly to prevent the spread of infection through contact with surfaces and faces that have the virus on them.

Avoid crowds: Influenza spreads easily in places where people gather, such as childcare centers, schools, office buildings, auditoriums and public transportation. Avoiding crowds during the peak of flu season can reduce your chances of infection.

Avoid contact with anyone who is sick: If you are sick, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever goes down to reduce the chance of infecting others.

When should you see a doctor

In most cases, people with the flu can treat their illness at home and usually do not need to see a doctor.

If you have flu symptoms and are at risk for complications, see your healthcare provider right away. Taking antiviral medications can shorten the course of the illness and prevent more serious problems.

For adults, symptoms indicating an emergency may include the following:

• difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• chest pain
• persistent dizziness
• epileptic seizure
• Pre-existing conditions become worse
• severe muscle pain or weakness

In children, symptoms indicating an emergency may include the following:

• Difficulty breathing
• Pale, gray, or blue skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin color
• chest pain
• dehydration
• severe muscle pain
• epileptic seizure
• Pre-existing conditions become worse

Although annual flu vaccination is not 100% effective, it can reduce the chance of serious complications from infection.

Go to your designated IPS vaccination site and apply for the vaccine for free.