Common Symptoms of Influenza (The Flu)

• High fever, sometimes accompanied by chills.
• Severe headache and muscle aches (myalgia).
• Sore throat, cough, nasal itching, and runny nose.
• Fatigue, loss of appetite, and abdominal discomfort.

Is Influenza Contagious?

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or talking in close proximity to an infected person. In children or the elderly, the symptoms can be severe, leading to serious complications or even death.

How to Prevent Influenza

• Hand Washing: Regularly washing your hands is a simple yet effective way to eliminate germs.
• Wearing Masks: Wearing a surgical mask helps prevent the spread of the virus.
• Avoid Crowded Areas: Stay away from densely populated, crowded, or enclosed spaces.
• Vaccination: Getting vaccinated helps build necessary immunity.

Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine?

The vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. It is especially crucial for individuals aged 65 and above, and high-risk groups with underlying conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, chronic lung disease, liver disease, kidney disease, or blood disorders.

Why Get Vaccinated Every Year?

• Influenza strains change every year. The World Health Organization (WHO) predicts the circulating strains annually to produce effective vaccines for that specific season.
• Immunity develops approximately 2 weeks after vaccination and typically lasts for 6–12 months.
• Even if it is the same strain, your immunity may decrease after one year, making you susceptible to infection again.
• Co-infection with COVID-19 can significantly increase the severity of the illness.

The Quadrivalent (4-Strain) Flu Vaccine Includes:

1. Influenza A (H1N1)
2. Influenza A (H3N2)
3. Influenza B (Victoria lineage)
4. Influenza B (Yamagata lineage)

Priority Groups for Vaccination

• Adults aged 50 and above / Children aged 6 months to 18 years.
• People with chronic conditions (lung, kidney, heart disease, or diabetes).
• Healthcare workers or individuals living/working in medical facilities.
• Pregnant women.

Treatment for Influenza

Currently, antiviral medications such as **Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)** are used. Patients benefit the most when the medication is administered within the first 48 hours of symptom onset. This helps shorten the duration of the illness, reduces severe complications, and limits the spread of the virus.