FLU

Flu or influenza is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system (a system consisting of the nose, throat, and lungs). Common cold symptoms include fever, headache, cough, aches, decreased appetite, and sore throat.


Incubation period of flu virus including short. You will experience symptoms only within one to three weeks after first infected. The period in which the most contagious flu is on a day when symptoms begin to appear for another three or seven days.

Many think flu is similar to a runny nose because of the similarity of symptoms, but this is not the right thing. The type of virus that causes the flu is different from the common cold. In addition, flu tends to have a shorter incubation period with more severe symptoms that can inhibit the routine of the patient. While colds generally appear gradually with symptoms that are lighter so as not to impact the patient's routine.
Step Flu Treatment
Doctor handling is not needed in most cases of flu, because the disease generally can heal by itself. Some self-help steps you can take include taking adequate rest, drinking, and keeping your body warm.

You can also take paracetamol or ibuprofen which can be bought freely at pharmacies to reduce fever and reduce pain and stiffness. You are not advised to take antibiotics because this drug is only intended for conditions caused by bacteria, while the cause of the flu is a virus.
Flu Complications
Flu rarely causes serious complications. However, the risk of developing complications is quite high among:

Children.
Pregnant mother.
Seniors.

Patients with serious or chronic diseases such as heart failure, lung disease, or diabetes.
People with declining immune systems, such as cancer and HIV.

Flu Prevention Steps
The flu virus can be transmitted through the saliva released by the patient when sneezing or coughing. In addition, objects that have been contaminated with the flu virus can also be a medium of transmission. The main step to prevent this disease is to maintain cleanliness. Do not forget to wash your hands before eating. For public transport users, it is advisable to wear masks while traveling.

Another flu prevention step is by vaccination. But this method is only recommended for those who are more susceptible to flu complications.