The flu outbreak in the United States shows no signs of slowing down as 16 new cases have been reported, along with 13 deaths. This brings the total number of cases to over 19,000, with over 2,000 deaths reported so far this season.

The flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can be deadly, especially for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

What is the Flu?

The flu, also known as influenza, is a respiratory illness caused by a virus. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue.

The flu is spread from person to person through respiratory droplets when someone coughs or sneezes.

How to Prevent the Flu

The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu shot every year. The flu shot works by helping your body build up immunity to the virus.

Other ways to prevent the flu include washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and staying home if you are sick.

Symptoms of the Flu

The symptoms of the flu can vary from person to person, but some of the most common symptoms include:.

Fever
Cough
Sore throat
Body aches
Headache
Chills
Fatigue

Who is at Risk for the Flu?

Anyone can get the flu, but some people are at a higher risk of getting sick and experiencing severe symptoms. These groups include:.

Young children
Elderly adults
Pregnant women
People with weakened immune systems
People with certain medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease

What to Do if You Get the Flu

If you think you have the flu, it is important to see a healthcare provider right away. Your healthcare provider can prescribe antiviral medication that can help you feel better faster and reduce the risk of complications.

It is also important to stay home and avoid contact with others to prevent the spread of the virus.

How to Treat the Flu

The flu is a viral illness, which means that antibiotics will not work to treat it. Instead, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and making you more comfortable.

This can include taking over-the-counter pain medication, drinking plenty of fluids, getting plenty of rest, and using a humidifier or steam to help relieve congestion.

When to Seek Emergency Medical Attention

In some cases, the flu can lead to complications that require emergency medical attention. These can include:.

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Persistent chest pain or pressure
Sudden dizziness or confusion
Severe or persistent vomiting
High fever that does not respond to medication
Bluish lips or face

How to Stay Healthy During Flu Season

Aside from getting a flu shot, there are a number of things you can do to stay healthy during flu season:.

Wash your hands frequently
Avoid touching your face
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
Stay home if you are sick

Conclusion

The flu outbreak in the United States is a serious concern, with over 19,000 cases and over 2,000 deaths reported so far this season. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu shot, practicing good hygiene, and staying home if you are sick.

If you think you have the flu, it is important to see a healthcare provider right away and take steps to prevent the spread of the virus.