Flu Season Is Not Over Yet. Pay attention!

The seasonal flu (which occurs from October to March most often) or epidemic experiences a winter peak. 2 to 8 million people suffer from the flu each year. The flu is a viral respiratory infection that manifests as sneezing, coughing, stuffy nose, tiredness, chills, and high fever. Most symptoms go away after a week or two. Very contagious, the flu often causes epidemics in winter. It is transmitted most of the time by direct contact (kiss, handshake …) but also in the air.  Flu symptoms appear 24 to 48 hours after the onset of infection.

Here’s how to recognize flu symptoms:

Modes of transmission of the influenza virus:

  • Airway when inhaled particles of virus emitted saliva, postillions, or cough by an infected person.
  • By direct contact with the hands or with objects that have touched a sick person (during public transport, in elevators, at the nursery or school with cuddly toys, pacifiers or toys, at work, during meals with cutlery for example).
  • By contact with infected animals, especially birds with avian flu.

Some precautionary measures to take to avoid getting infected: 

  • Wash your hands regularly with water and mild soap.
  • Or rub your hands with a hydro-alcoholic gel.
  • Wear a surgical protective mask against particles in the presence of contaminated people.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow/sleeve or a handkerchief or blow your nose with a disposable handkerchief and throw it away if you cough or sneeze.
  • Ventilate your home and workplace.
  • Do not share personal items (cutlery, bathroom linen, etc.).
  • Avoid contact with people in flu-like conditions and protect fragile people like babies, pregnant women, the elderly, etc.

What is the treatment?

According to the WHO, people with the flu should drink lots of water and rest. Most heal within a week. Antiviral drugs can reduce severe complications and mortality, although influenza viruses can develop resistance. They are particularly important for high-risk groups (pregnant women, children, subjects with chronic conditions). Ideally, these medications should be given early (within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms). Antibiotics are not effective against influenza viruses.