Flu Symptoms and Prevention Methods

Influenza is a common respiratory infection caused by viruses that affects the respiratory system. The infection is typically transmitted through droplets spread by coughing or sneezing, making it a highly contagious disease, especially in crowded places.

Flu symptoms are similar to those of the common cold, but they are usually more severe and can lead to serious complications, particularly in children and the elderly.

Flu outbreaks are seasonal, especially during winter, which necessitates preventive measures.

Flu Symptoms

Flu symptoms usually appear suddenly and last from a few days to a week, and they can worsen in certain individuals, such as the elderly, children, or those with chronic illnesses.

Symptoms generally range from mild to severe and may include:

  • High fever, often exceeding 38°C, which is common at the onset of the illness.
  • Sore throat.
  • Chills.
  • Dry cough.
  • General muscle and joint pain, making movement difficult.
  • Extreme fatigue.
  • Headache.
  • Nasal congestion.
  • Eye pain.
  • Loss of appetite.

In some cases, flu symptoms may be severe and include:

  • Sharp chest pain.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Severe muscle pain.
  • Extremely high fever.
  • Persistent and severe dizziness.
  • Seizures.
  • Loss of consciousness.

If any of these severe symptoms appear, immediate medical attention should be sought.

Flu Transmission Methods

The primary ways influenza spreads from person to person include:

  • Inhalation of contaminated air: When an infected person coughs or sneezes, droplets containing the virus are released into the air, potentially infecting others.
  • Direct contact: Touching surfaces contaminated with the virus (such as doorknobs or phones) and then touching the face, nose, or mouth.
  • Contact with an infected person: For example, shaking hands or being in crowded places.

How Long After Exposure Do Flu Symptoms Appear?

Flu symptoms typically appear one to four days after exposure to the virus, which is known as the incubation period.

Flu Treatment

Flu treatment depends on the severity of the infection and any complications that may arise, and it includes the following methods:

Home remedies

In most cases, influenza symptoms improve and disappear naturally within 4 to 7 days. During this period, symptoms can be alleviated by following these recommendations:

  • Get plenty of rest when feeling tired.
  • Drink plenty of water and fluids to keep the body hydrated.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and pain.
  • Use warm compresses to relieve muscle aches.
  • Consume foods rich in Vitamin C, such as lemon and hot peppers.
  • Drink herbal teas like ginger to soothe a sore throat.

Medical Treatment for Influenza

If symptoms are severe or complications arise, a doctor may prescribe antiviral medications, such as Oseltamivir (Tamiflu).

These medications are most effective when taken within the first two days of the onset of symptoms.

Flu Prevention Methods

To protect yourself and others from contracting the flu, several preventive measures can be taken, such as:

  • Flu vaccination: The flu vaccine is one of the most effective ways to prevent infection. It is recommended to get vaccinated annually, especially for individuals at higher risk, such as the elderly, children, and those with chronic conditions.
  • Regular handwashing: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing, and use hand sanitizer if soap is not available.
  • Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing: Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose, or if unavailable, cover it with your elbow to reduce virus spread.
  • Avoid close contact with infected individuals: Try to avoid crowded places or close contact with people who show flu symptoms.
  • Disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean surfaces that come into frequent contact with people, such as door handles, desks, and electronic devices.
  • Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get adequate sleep, as this strengthens the immune system and reduces the chances of getting sick.
  • Avoid touching your face: Minimize touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands to prevent the virus from entering your body.
  • Avoid smoking and exposure to pollution: Smoking weakens the immune system and increases your susceptibility to flu and other respiratory diseases.

References:

  1. Flu (Influenza). (2025, February 12). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4335-influenza-flu#symptoms-and-causes
  2. Influenza (flu) - Symptoms and causes. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/symptoms-causes/syc-20351719