Although influenza, or the flu, is a common illness, the facts surrounding it are sometimes not completely known. The best thing to do is educate yourself with information that allows you to better understand the illness, its causes, and how to protect yourself from it. Take some time to look over the following, which are 7 facts about influenza.
1. What exactly is influenza?
Although influenza is often confused with the common cold, the flu is usually much more serious. It is a highly-contagious illness that infects the upper and/or lower respiratory tracts of millions of people each year. The flu is a viral illness, which means antibiotics cannot cure it. In certain cases and individuals, the flu can lead to serious complications. The highest number of flu cases are reported in the winter and early spring months.
2. What are the symptoms of influenza?
People infected with influenza often suffer from a fever and chills. Some other common symptoms of the flu include sore throat, nasal congestion, runny nose, cough, body aches and pains, fatigue, and headaches. Depending on the severity of the case, the flu can make it difficult and sometimes impossible to go on with daily life.
3. How can influenza be spread?
Influenza can easily be spread from an infected individual to others. It is spread through respiratory secretions, such as sneezes an (Read More)....



