The flu virus, also called influenza, is one of the most common infections that hits every year. It spreads easily from person to person, especially when people cough, sneeze, or touch shared surfaces. Knowing how the flu works helps you avoid nasty symptoms and stay healthier.
Flu symptoms usually come on fast and can include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches, and feeling wiped out. Unlike a cold, the flu can hit hard and sometimes lead to complications like pneumonia, especially in older adults and people with weak immune systems.
The flu virus spreads mostly through droplets when someone with the flu sneezes or coughs nearby. You can also catch it by touching surfaces like door handles or phones and then touching your face. That’s why washing hands often and avoiding close contact with sick people is key.
Getting a flu shot every year is the best way to protect yourself. Even if you do catch the flu after vaccination, your symptoms are likely to be milder. Besides vaccines, simple habits like regular hand washing, using hand sanitizer, covering your mouth when coughing, and cleaning commonly touched surfaces make a big difference.
If you do get the flu, it helps to rest, hydrate, and consider antiviral medicines prescribed by your doctor early on to ease symptoms. Avoid going to work or school to prevent spreading it to others.
Knowing about the flu virus puts you in control. Stay informed, take precautions, and get your flu shot to keep the flu at bay this season.
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