Flu, or influenza, is a respiratory ailment that is caused by a virus. Highly contagious, flu normally spreads when the infected individual sneezes or coughs. It can also spread by touching an individual, for example, shaking hands with the infected individual. Adults are contagious a day or two before the symptoms start and after becoming ill up to seven days. This means one can spread the influenza virus even before one knows he/she is infected.

Here is some information about the types of flu, its symptoms, treatment options, and more.

What are the different types of seasonal flu?
Seasonal flu viruses are of three types, namely, type A, B, and C. Below is some more information about the different types of flu.

• Type A – Although capable of infecting animals, type A influenza viruses commonly cause people to suffer from illnesses associated with this type of flu. Generally, wild animals act as host for this influenza virus. The type A flu virus changes constantly and is commonly responsible for large flu epidemics.
• Type B – Type B flu is found only in human beings. This type of flu may cause a less severe reaction as compared to type A influenza virus. Occasionally, type B flu can be extremely adverse. The type B flu viruses do not have a subtype and do not cause epidemics.
• Type C – Milder than type A and type B influenza viruses, the type C influenza viruses are also found in human beings. Individuals do not get too ill because of this type of flu and it does not cause pandemics.

What are the common signs and symptoms of influenza?
Often flu is confused with a common cold. This is because their symptoms, including a sore throat, cough, and a runny or blocked nose, are very similar. To tell them apart, below are some signs and symptoms of flu that aren’t similar to a common or a heavy cold:

• High body temperature (over 100.4 F)
• Aching limbs and joints
• A headache
• Chills and sweat
• Cold sweats
• Fatigue and weakness
• Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting)

When to visit a doctor?
An individual must contact a doctor if:

• he/she is elderly or frail
• his/her body temperature remains high after four to five days.
• the symptoms associated with flu worsen
• he/she feels too ill
• he/she has chest pain and/or shortness of breath

What are the risk factors for flu?
Flu is not serious in a majority of the cases. However, for certain individuals, it can create severe complications. This is more likely for individuals with a chronic illness, which can undermine their immune system; young children; and seniors. The risk of suffering from severe flu complications are higher for:

• infants and young children
• adults over the age of 65 years
• pregnant women
• individuals with kidney disease
• those with chest problems
• diabetics
• individuals suffering from a cardiovascular or heart disease
• those with longstanding diseases that reduce the functions of the immune system
• individuals taking steroids
• those undergoing treatment for cancer

How is flu treated?

• Flu is caused by a virus; therefore, antibiotics cannot help unless the flu has led to the development of another illness that is caused by bacteria. Under some circumstances, the doctor may prescribe antivirals.
• Painkillers can be used to relieve some of the flu symptoms like body aches and headaches. However, painkillers should be taken under the advice of a doctor.
• Individuals suffering from flu should not skip meals, stay at home, stop smoking, avoid contact with other individuals whenever possible, avoid consuming alcohol, keep warm, stay hydrated, and take plenty of rest. Additionally, individuals who are living alone should inform a relative, colleague, friend, or a neighbor about their ailment and make sure someone checks in on them from time to time.