A flu epidemic has swept across the country, claiming over 100 lives and leaving countless others bedridden and unable to go about their daily lives.

The flu virus is easily spread from person to person, making it a highly contagious illness that can quickly cause widespread illness and even death in vulnerable populations.

What is the flu?

The flu, short for influenza, is a highly contagious viral respiratory illness that affects the nose, throat, and lungs.

The virus is spread through the air by droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching one’s mouth, nose, or eyes.

Symptoms of the flu

The symptoms of the flu can be mild to severe and usually include:.

Fever or feeling feverish/chills
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Body aches
Headache
Fatigue (tiredness)

Some people may also experience vomiting and diarrhea, but these symptoms are more common in children than adults.

Who is at risk for the flu?

Anyone can become infected with the flu, but certain populations are more at risk for developing severe illness or complications from the virus, including:.

Young children
Older adults
Pregnant women
People with weakened immune systems
People with chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease

Preventing the flu

The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated each year. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of 6 months, especially those at high risk for developing severe illness or complications from the virus.

In addition to getting vaccinated, it is also important to practice good hygiene, such as:.

Washing your hands often with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow
Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
Staying home from work or school if you are sick

What to do if you get the flu

If you become sick with the flu, it is important to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take over-the-counter medications to relieve your symptoms.

If you are at high risk for developing severe illness or complications from the flu, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medication to help reduce the duration and severity of your illness.

Conclusion

The flu is a highly contagious viral illness that can cause severe illness and even death in vulnerable populations. Getting vaccinated each year and practicing good hygiene are the best ways to prevent the flu.

If you become sick with the flu, it is important to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and seek medical attention if necessary.