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What is the Flu?
The Flu is a very contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. The severity of flu cases ranges from mild to severe, occasionally even life-threatening.
10 to 20 percent of U.S. residents "catch" the flu each year, with an average of over 100,000 people hospitalized for flu-related complications.
Flu symptoms
Symptoms of the flu include:
- high fever
- headache
- extreme fatigue
- sore throat
- dry cough
- stuffy nose
- runny nose
- muscle aches
- nausea
- diarrhea
- vomiting
How is the flu spread?
The flu is spread from person to person in respiratory droplets contained in coughs and sneezes (droplet spread). These droplets from a cough or sneeze are propelled up to three feet through the air and can be deposited on the mouth or nose of a nearby person.
Flu viruses can also be spread when you the touch respiratory droplets from another person that are on an object (such as a doorknob) and then touch your mouth or nose before you have a chance to wash your hands.
How to avoid catching the flu:
- Avoid close contact with others who have the flu.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
How to avoid spreading the flu:
- Don't get close to other people.
- Stay home from work or school.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water.
- When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth
and nose with a tissue.
Conclusion
The flu is a very contagious, unpleasant, and dangerous illness. The suggestions above can help you avoid catching the flu or spreading it to others.
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