Flu (Influenza)

Influenza or flu, an acute respiratory infection is very commonplace and most of us have this ailment at some point of our life. Though it's common but due to its contagious nature, it's capable of sweeping through entire communities. Flu season usually begins in November or December and may last until April or May.

The term flu is used and abused many times and is often applied to almost anything that makes us feel unwell but honestly influenza should not be mistaken for the common cold or other airborne viruses. The flu differs significantly from the common cold in both the rapid onset of the illness and in the potentially life-threatening complications that can develop, especially in the elderly. Although most people recover within a week, serious problems can occur in newborn babies, people with certain chronic illnesses, and the elderly.

A "flu shot" or vaccination is made available each year to help combat or prevent flu in the most vulnerable of the population. Elderly people, however, often lack the immune capacity to generate an antibody response to prevent infection from the influenza virus. As many as 69,000 Americans die from influenza in a bad epidemic year and this fact itself suggests the fatal aspect of flu.

Most of the physicians typically tell patients to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take aspirin or acetaminophen to relieve fever and discomfort. Following this standard treatment virtually guarantees that influenza victims will suffer through the entire natural course of the disease. Apart from this mode of treatment, there are several FDA-approved antiviral drugs such as Tamiflu, Amantadine, Rimantadine, Relenza and natural immune-boosting agents that can shorten the duration and severity of the illness.

Usual flu symptoms include:

Fever and chills
Weakness and aching in legs, arms, back
Headache
Nasal congestion
Loss of appetite
Sore throat
Dry cough
Burning eyes