this Low temperatures are coming Although the flu has been delayed this year, it is still here. The contrast between cold nights and warm middays, coupled with the first snowfall, has left health centers buzzing with flu and colds.
Influenza (caused by a virus Influencearrive or influenza) primarily causes inflammation of the respiratory system, with symptoms usually concentrated in the throat and lungs.
he Headache, bone and cough These are usually the most obvious signs. The discomfort is annoying but only lasts a few days, although there are also some more vulnerable people with weaker defense systems who May cause serious complications.
That’s why it’s important avoid infection The further away the better.
How is the influenza virus spread?
Influenza viruses are characterized by easily contagious Every winter it appears in the form of an epidemic. This means the disease spreads quickly and affects many people in the same area at the same time.
spanish flu Affects 5% to 20% of the population In general, the “peak incidence” that usually occurs in the winter is usually 2, although experts have pointed out that Influenza cases increase throughout the yeareven in summer.
Influenza virus in general Be transported from one person to another droplets through respiratory secretions (nasal cavity, bronchial tubes, or saliva), which contain viruses and are often expelled into the air Cough, sneeze or just talk.
when inhaling These droplets come from a person infected with the flu, and that person becomes infected, etc.Can also be forwarded When in contact with contaminated objects Touching tissues, food utensils, tabletops, computers, etc. that have the flu virus on them, and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
How many days can the flu spread?
- Infected adults can infect others Begins 1 or 2 days before symptoms appear Maximum 3-7 days later.
- The weird thing is, The infection started in the toddler 6 days ago and in the baby 10 days ago Time of onset of symptoms.
- people with Immunocompromised They may remain contagious for weeks or months.
- Although infected people can spread the virus no symptoms Don’t have this disease either.
Types of influenza viruses
In order to reduce the impact of influenza on the population and reduce serious complications, it is necessary Strictly implement infection prevention measures. there’s a few Types of influenza viruses or influenza:
- Influenza A: It occurs during the epidemic outbreak between the beginning of winter and the beginning of spring and may cause a pandemic. The main focus is on people, but it can also be on other animals, such as birds or pigs.
- Influenza B: It can appear at any time of the year and only affects humans.
Influenza viruses also exist They are characterized by strong mutation ability (Their antigens, the surface structures that allow the body to recognize them, are different), change year after year Types of viruses transmitted, except Several different subtypes or strains may exist simultaneously each season.
Study and understand how different influenza viruses mutate and which viruses are dominant, There is a global epidemiological surveillance network, Controlled laboratories coordinated with the World Health Organization (WHO) allow researchers to take Appropriate precautions against epidemic or pandemic risks.
Viruses’ vast ability to change explains this Getting vaccinated or having the flu only protects against the specific virus that causes the infection. or against the strains contained in the vaccine, so some people may get the disease multiple times in the same season despite being vaccinated.
How to avoid getting the flu
the following Hygiene measures are effective To avoid getting or spreading the flu:
- wash hands often, wash with soap and water for 10 to 20 seconds, also between fingers and wrists. Especially after coughing, sneezing or going to the bathroom, and before eating.
- avoid direct contact People who have influenza or symptoms.
- Do not cough or sneeze into the airinstead cover your nose and mouth with a disposable tissue and throw it in the trash.
- avoid touching Nose, mouth or eyes as these are common routes of entry.
- Both children and adults should stay at home to avoid infection.
- Ventilate and let in sunlight Spend 15 minutes a day at home, school and in closed spaces.
- Never share eating utensils Possible exposure to saliva or secretions.
- Avoid kissing or shaking hands when greeting
- Keep it clean and disinfected Door handles, railings, bathrooms, tables, computers, phones and commonly used items.
- Especially disinfecting toysmusical instruments, pencils and shared school supplies.
most at risk complication If they get the flu, they are people over 65, people under 2 years old, pregnant women in their second or third month of flu season, and people with chronic illnesses or changes in their immune systems.