Influenza

Influenza (often called the flu) is a contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract (nose, throat, and lungs).

• Cause: It is caused by influenza viruses (not by bacteria), so antibiotics do not cure it.
• How it spreads: Mainly through tiny droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or even breathes close to others. It can also spread when you touch a surface with the virus and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Common symptoms: Fever, cough, sore throat, runny or blocked nose, body ache, headache, and tiredness. Flu often makes you feel more “knocked down” than a mild cold.
• Why it matters: Influenza can sometimes lead to complications like chest infection/pneumonia, especially in young children, older people, or those with asthma and other health problems.
• Prevention: Good hygiene (handwashing, covering coughs/sneezes, wearing a mask in crowded places, not sharing personal items) reduces spread. A flu vaccine can also help protect against common strains.
• Helpful idea: Think of the flu virus like a “tiny hitchhiker” in droplets—blocking droplets (mask, covering mouth) and washing hands stops it from getting a ride into your body.