Flu - All You Need To Know
Flu - All You Need To Know
FLU - ALSO KNOWN AS
INFLUENZA
IS CAUSED BY INFLUENZA VIRUSES
THAT INFECTS THE
RESPIRATORY TRACT
The flu shares some of the same symptoms as the common cold, but with some important differences. The flu often comes on fast, with aches, pains, and a fever. And, unlike a cold, a flu can leave you feeling low for weeks.
WHAT CAUSES
FLU?
Influenza, or flu, is a highly contagious illness caused by influenza viruses. These viruses can enter your body in a few different ways. You might inhale the virus after someone with the flu sneezes or coughs. In addition, the virus can land on surfaces where it can survive for several hours and if you touch it and then touch your face or eyes it can enter your body that way.
People infected with influenza are most contagious in the first 3 to 4 days after their symptoms begin. In addition, most people may be able to infect others starting 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick.
PREVENTING FLU...
One of the best ways to avoid catching the flu is to avoid close contact with people who are currently infectious. Unfortunately, this is not always possible to know or do, especially if you’re a caring for a loved one. If someone is sick with the flu, keep your distance and make sure you wash your hands often. Avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes as the virus can easily enter your body this way.
Because the virus can survive on all kinds of hard surfaces, try to regularly clean frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, remote controls, banister or computer keyboards. If you need to sneeze or cough, use a disposable tissue and throw it in the bin straight away.
Another way to help protect against the flu is to get an annual flu vaccination (the flu jab).
THE FIRST
SIGNS OF FLU
Signs you are coming down with the flu can include:
- A sudden cough
- Headache
- A sudden fever
- Aches or pains
- Sore throat
- Intense fatigue
Symptoms of the flu typically decrease after about eight days, although your cough and fatigue may last for another one to two weeks.
HOW TO
MANAGE FLU SYMPTOMS?
The best thing you can do if you have the flu is get as much rest as you can, remain hydrated, and try to relieve the symptoms.
If any of your symptoms are worrying you go and see your doctor or pharmacist. They will be able to recommend treatment options that can help you feel better.
LEMSIP products are specially designed to help ease the symptoms of colds and flu. Talk to your pharmacist about which LEMSIP product is the best fit for the symptoms you are experiencing.
This article is for general information only and not intended as a substitute for medical advice. All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health-related matters, always consult your healthcare professional.
This medicine may not be right for you. Read the label before purchase. Follow the directions for use. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.