Flu- WHO Issues Worldwide Concern
By neucrad health own newsdesk March 18, 2019
How many of you have suffered from a recent bout of flu? I am sure, many of you would answer in affirmation as it is a widely prevalent and highly contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza virus. The pathogens enter human bodies through the mucous membranes of mouth, nose, or eyes. It primarily attacks the lungs, nose, and throat of infected individuals, and symptoms can be mild to severe depending on the immunity of the
person. Signs of flu are similar to the common cold, and this is the reason many people neglect this condition initially.
Flu Outbreak In Different Parts Of The World
In June 2009, a specific type of flu virus of the H1N1 strain, influenza subtype A (also known as swine flu) caused a pandemic in Asia and Europe causing death in over 17000 patients. Research studies linked this outbreak with the 1918 Spanish Flu outbreak. In 2015, a similar epidemic of influenza infection affected approximately 33000 people in India and claimed
over 2000 lives.
In 2017, Myanmar reported another HINI outbreak in 30 confirmed cases and claimed six lives. The situation was going out of hands when the Ministry of Health and Sports of Myanmar asked for help from WHO, UN, China and the United States for the control of the virus. 2018 saw the H1N1 outbreak in the Multan province of Pakistan causing death to 42 patients. Gujranwala and Lahore also reported the spread of the disease. Even in 2019 countries like Malta and Morocco reported the spread of swine flu in January- February months. From these data we can infer, flu outbreak can occur in any country of the globe. So, it is always better to practice preventive measures and quarantine infected patients as
early as possible [1].
What Are The Symptoms of Influenza Infection?
Initially, signs of flu mimic those of common cold. However, these symptoms are more intense and appear suddenly. Detailed below are some of the conditions experienced by most individuals.
- Fever over 100.4 F (38 C)
- Headache
- Body ache
- Dry cough
- Fatigue
- Nasal congestion
- Chills and sweat
- Sore throat
What Are The Different Types of Flu?
In general, there are three types of flu virus- Influenza virus type A, B, and C. Among these Type A causes infection in humans as well as animals. Sometimes, wild birds can also act as hosts of this sub-type of influenza. Since these viruses are constantly undergoing mutation, most of the endemics are caused by Type A virus. Type B influenza occurs only in human beings. Though symptoms are less severe than Sub-type A, it can still have adverse effects on health. Influenza type C virus also causes mild infection in human beings. Till now, they have not resulted in an epidemic or pandemic.
What Are The Complications of Flu Infection?
For young and healthy individuals with strong immunity, flu infection is not a severe threat. However, if children and old aged patients do not take measures to control secondary infection, influenza can lead to severe complications like pneumonia, bronchitis, cardiac issues, asthma flare-ups, and ear infection.
Prevention of Influenza
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advocates annual flu vaccination from 6 months or older individuals. These vaccines offer protection from three to four common strains of influenza. In addition to the injection form of the vaccine, there is also a nasal vaccine. However, doctors do not recommend the nasal vaccine for pregnant women and
asthmatic patients. Most flu vaccines also contain an egg protein. So, if you are allergic to egg, inform your doctor beforehand, so that he can devise precautionary measures.
Treatment For Influenza
Since flu is a viral infection, you can overcome it by consuming an adequate quantity of fluids and rest. However, if your immunity is low, doctors may prescribe antiviral drugs like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza).
So, these were all about flu threat throughout the world. Get vaccinated periodically, and follow other hygienic measures to keep the infection at bay.
