What is the seasonal flu?
The seasonal flu is a viral respiratory infection due to the Influenza virus. Contagious, it causes seasonal epidemics every winter.
What are the seasonal flu symptoms?
Symptoms of the flu include severe fatigue, cough, body aches, headaches and fever that can go above 39°. It heals in most cases within 3 to 7 days.
If it’s not at first sight a dangerous disease, it can present severe forms in the most fragile people such as children under 2 years old, elderly people, pregnant women, or immunocompromised people.
Protect yourself and others from getting the flu
The flu spreads easily. It therefore implies practicing hygiene measures to limit the transmission of the virus:
- Wash hands regularly
- Sneeze and cough into your elbow
- Use single-use tissues
- Limit contact with people at risk
The flu vaccine remains the most effective way to protect ourselves because there is no treatment to get rid of flu viruses. Prevention is better than cure! However, the vaccine dose must be renewed every year because the strains of the viruses mutate regularly.
What is the flu treatment?
To alleviate the symptoms and reduce the duration of the disease, your doctor may prescribe specific antivirals or paracetamol. In any case, get plenty of rest and stay hydrated!
Beware: flu symptoms are similar to Covid-19!If in doubt, isolate yourself and contact your doctor.
This information is not a substitute for medical advice. You must seek the advice of your doctor or another qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health condition.
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