Flu Season Arrives Early – What You Need to Know

What Exactly is the Flu?

The flu is an illness caused by the influenza virus. Its symptoms include high fever, muscle aches, headaches, cough, runny nose, weakness, and a general feeling of malaise. It may also be accompanied by a sore throat, conjunctivitis, and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. Most symptoms resolve within a week.

What is the Difference Between the Flu and a Cold??

In principle, a cold is a milder illness than the flu and makes you feel less unwell than the flu. Its symptoms primarily include a runny nose and sometimes a cough. A cold is usually not as dangerous as the flu, does not last as long, and fever in a cold is usually not as high as in the flu..

Can the Flu Be Dangerous??

The flu can be dangerous for the general population. The main complications of the illness are pneumonia, ear infections, and sinus infections. Less common complications include encephalitis, exacerbation of existing chronic lung disease, myocarditis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome. In particularly severe cases, the flu can cause organ failure, chas v'shalom.

Who is Especially at Risk??

Infants, the elderly, immunocompromised patients due to malignant diseases or immunosuppressive treatments, patients with chronic diseases, pregnant women, and individuals suffering from obesity.

Why is the Flu Contagious??

The viruses that cause the illness are easily carried through the air in tiny droplets, so sneezing, coughing, and hand contact (previously touching the nose, face, or someone sick) can transmit the viruses from person to person.In winter, when people gather in enclosed spaces, the virus can easily spread from person to person. The flu is contagious from one to two days before the onset of the illness up to three to five days after symptoms appear..

Is There a Way to Prevent Infection??

In daily life, it is highly recommended to ventilate the house as much as possible. It is also advised not to face a coughing and sneezing sick person. To prevent infection, maintain personal hygiene using disinfectants such as alcohol gel, and of course, you can get vaccinated against the virus.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Usually, there is no need for a doctor's examination unless one or more of the following symptoms appear: shortness of breath, chest pain, inability to drink, vomiting, or a general worsening of condition. Then it is necessary to see a doctor.

How is the Flu Treated?

Usually, flu treatment is supportive, such as drinking plenty of fluids and taking pain relievers and fever reducers.. For patients at high risk for flu complications, prescription medication can be provided.

*Data from "Clalit" Health Services