Keeping the flu virus at bay
See a doctor immediately if you have difficulty breathing, or have chest pain, along with symptoms of a common cold. Children below the age of five and pregnant women should not take chances.
IF YOU SUSPECT YOU HAVE THE FLU…
Consult a doctor. Do not self-medicate. Avoid crowds. Take leave of absence from work or school.
Cover your mouth when coughing or
sneezing, wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizers.
Support your immune system by following a nutritious diet, drinking plenty of water and getting at least 8 hours of sleep daily.
70-80% CHANCE OF THE VACCINE PREVENTING THE FLU GET VACCINATED What is seasonal influenza?
An acute viral infection that spreads easily from person to person and can affect anyone in any age group. Infection ranges from mild to severe illnesses, and in rare cases death.
Who needs the flu vaccination?
Health care professionals and people in the high risk group, which include pregnant women, patients with chronic diseases, the elderly and children under age five.
Where is the vaccination available?
The shots are available at the health ministry’s 76 primary health care centres and private health institutions.
Approximately Dh50. TIME CYCLE OF VIRAL INFECTIONS
3-10 days time
is the life cycle of a virus bug. Viral infections cannot be treated by antibiotics. Once an individual contracts an infection, they have to wait for the cycle to end.
Simple medication that offers symptomatic relief can be purchased to ease the process.
If you have bought antibiotics after the first symptoms of flu appeared without knowing its source, the medication might not even work.
A throat swab can determine if it is a viral or bacterial. You would respond to the antibiotic within 24-48 hours if it is a bacterial infection.
SYMPTOMS
The Mayo Clinic highlights the most common symptoms of the flu, that set it apart from the common cold. While the colds develops slowly, the flu tends to come on suddenly. Those affected could experience:
1 Fever over 38C 2 Aching muscles 3 Chills and sweats 4 Headache 5 Dry, persistent cough 6 Fatigue and weakness 7 Nasal congestion 8 Sore throat