Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract. It is spread by person to person contact and airborne droplet spray.
Individual strains of the virus are constantly mutating and because of this, vaccines against influenza gave been only partly successful.
Today influenza is rarely fatal – but in the elderly or the immune compromised individual – pneumonia can follow, as well as ear infection and other complications.
- There is no specific therapy. Non – exertion and comfortable environment are the best remedies.
- Aspirin is not recommended unless the fever is high or the symptoms prevent sleep.
- If necessary a cough syrup can suppress the cough enough to allow you rest.
- Go plenty of liquids and bed rest until you feel well enough to resume normal activities.
- Stay at home.
- A warm salt water gargle is soothing to a raspy throat.
- Lubricate your tender nose with K – y jelly.
- During the flu and cold season, always wash your hands before touching your face, particularly in the areas of the nose and eyes.
No comments:
Post a Comment