What is Influenza?
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It spreads easily through droplets in the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Unlike the common cold, influenza begins suddenly and can cause severe symptoms.
Typical signs include:
- High fever and chills
- Headache and body pain
- Sore throat and dry cough
- Fatigue and weakness
- Occasionally nausea or diarrhea (especially in children)
Most healthy people recover within a week, but influenza can cause serious complications in vulnerable groups.
A Virus, not a Bacteria
Influenza is caused by a virus, not by bacteria.
This is important because antibiotics do not work against viruses. Antibiotics are useful only when a secondary bacterial infection develops (such as bacterial pneumonia or sinusitis).
For most flu cases, treatment focuses on rest, hydration, and relieving symptoms and not antibiotics.
Who is most at risk?
Certain individuals are more likely to develop complications such as pneumonia or hospitalization:
- Children under 5 years old
- Adults over 65 years old
- Pregnant women
- People with chronic conditions (diabetes, asthma, heart or kidney disease)
- Healthcare and essential workers frequently exposed to infection
If you are at risk, don’t forget your vaccination every year please.
The importance of vaccination
The influenza virus changes from year to year, which is why a new vaccine is developed annually to protect against the most recent strains.
At Intercare Hospital, the latest quadrivalent influenza vaccine is now available, covering four major strains (two A and two B types). It will help your body to create antibodies against the Influenza virus.
Vaccination benefits include:
- Reduced risk of getting the flu
- Milder illness if infected
- Lower chance of spreading the virus to others
What to do if you get the flu
If flu symptoms appear:
- Rest and stay well hydrated.
- Take paracetamol to reduce fever and pain (avoid aspirin in children +++).
- Stay home to prevent infecting others and wear a mask.
- Seek medical care if symptoms worsen or persist beyond 3 days.
- Do not take antibiotics (useless)
People at high risk should consult a doctor early, as antiviral treatment may be prescribed to reduce complications.
Treatment and the role of Tamiflu
For most healthy individuals, influenza improves with supportive care: rest, fluids, and paracetamol to reduce fever and pain.
However, for people at higher risk of complications or with severe symptoms, doctors may prescribe antiviral medication such as Tamiflu (oseltamivir) (syrup and tablets available at Intercare).
Tamiflu works by blocking the virus’s ability to multiply, helping the body recover faster.
To be effective, it should be started within the first 48 hours after symptoms begin.
It can also be given preventively to close contacts of patients in some situations (for example, family members or healthcare workers).
Everyday prevention Tips
- Wash hands frequently with soap and clean water.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid close contact with people showing flu-like symptoms.
- Maintain a healthy diet and get enough sleep to support immunity.
- Keep rooms well ventilated, especially in crowded areas.
What is the difference between the Flu, a Cold and the Covid 19 please?
These 3 diseases (Influenza, Cold and Covid-19) have some similar symptoms.
You can do a rapid test to check which disease you have.
They are all caused by a virus.
Don’t take antibiotics if you have one of these diseases, please.
Key Messages
Influenza is not just a simple cold; it can be a serious illness, but it is largely preventable.
Vaccination and good hygiene habits are the most effective tools to keep individuals and communities healthy.
Protect yourself and your loved ones this season by getting vaccinated against the flu.
