The Center for Disease Control and Prevention defines Influenza as “a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses” (CDC 2016). Simply put, influenza is a virus that damages the respiratory system. Influenza is often characterized by congestion to the nasal pathways and throat. Common indications that point to Influenza include a fever, sometimes over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, severe coughing, and headaches. Vomiting and diarrhea are symptoms more closely associated with children infected with Influenza. Symptoms of Influenza, such as running a fever, do not always result in the diagnosis of Influenza. Influenza specifically “attacks cells in the upper respiratory tract” (Gale Encyclopedia) so therefore symptoms are generally concentrated
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The contact may be direct or indirect. “Experts think that flu viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk” (CDC 2016). This statement explains that Influenza can be acquired simply by standing near someone who has been diagnosed with the disease. Most people are often “able to infect other people beginning 1 day before symptoms develop…” (CDC 2016). During the Influenza season, generally between October and May, the CDC says “it is important to stay away from sick people and stay home if sick” (CDC). While this advice seems obvious, it is important to remember how easily this virus can spread. Limited touching of the hands and face are excellent strategies to prevent acquiring the Influenza virus. The most common method of avoiding this disease is receiving a seasonal flu shot. Flu vaccines are “made to protect against three different flu viruses” (CDC 2016). The vaccine contains strands of the Influenza virus enabling the body to develop an immunity. After the shot “it takes up to two weeks to develop protection” (Gale Encyclopedia). Another treatment is using antiviral drugs to combat Influenza. These drugs are not a cure for the virus they merely help lessen the symptoms. When determining the best treatment for Influenza it is important to remember, “Antiviral drugs are a second line of defense to treat the flu if
The contact may be direct or indirect. “Experts think that flu viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk” (CDC 2016). This statement explains that Influenza can be acquired simply by standing near someone who has been diagnosed with the disease. Most people are often “able to infect other people beginning 1 day before symptoms develop…” (CDC 2016). During the Influenza season, generally between October and May, the CDC says “it is important to stay away from sick people and stay home if sick” (CDC). While this advice seems obvious, it is important to remember how easily this virus can spread. Limited touching of the hands and face are excellent strategies to prevent acquiring the Influenza virus. The most common method of avoiding this disease is receiving a seasonal flu shot. Flu vaccines are “made to protect against three different flu viruses” (CDC 2016). The vaccine contains strands of the Influenza virus enabling the body to develop an immunity. After the shot “it takes up to two weeks to develop protection” (Gale Encyclopedia). Another treatment is using antiviral drugs to combat Influenza. These drugs are not a cure for the virus they merely help lessen the symptoms. When determining the best treatment for Influenza it is important to remember, “Antiviral drugs are a second line of defense to treat the flu if