Flu is a contagious disease caused by a virus that enters the body through the nose or mouth and often invades the lungs. Flu shows up mainly in winter and early spring. Flu's and colds are much alike but flu's are more severe, with high fever and aches. A bad case of flu may send an otherwise healthy person to bed for 3 to 5 days but will be completely well within 1 or 2 weeks.
The disease spreads through communities creating an epidemic. During the epidemic, the number of cases peaks in about three weeks and subsides after another three or four weeks. Half of the population of a community may be affected. Because schools are an excellent place for flu viruses to attack and spread, families with school-age children have more infections than other families, with an average of one-third of the family members infected each year.
Flu symptoms:
- Fever over 103 degrees.
- Chills and muscle aches.
- Fatigue and weakness.
- Sore throat.
- Dry cough.
- Stuffy nose.
- Chest pain with each breath.
Prevention of Flu:
- If you are allergic to eggs or think you are check with your doctor before getting a flu shot.
- Ask your doctor about new oral vaccines that may help keep you from getting the flu
- Stay away from people who have been sneezing and coughing.
- Wash your hands often to reduce the risk of catching flu.
- Don't smoke, and avoid smoky places.
- Keep your immune system healthy by eating well; getting enough sleep, keeping stress levels low.
- Drink lots of water, at least 8 glasses a day.
Cure for flu, Home remedies for flu:
The more rest you get the sooner you'll get well. Staying home also keeps you from spreading the virus. To get well quickly:
- Drink as many fluids like water, juice, hot tea as you can. Try some frozen juice bars for variety.
- Have chicken soup and bouillon; the heat may relieve the stuffed up feeling.
- Take a painkiller for aches and fever.
- Avoid taking over the counter medicine aimed at relieving 2 or more symptoms.
- Ask your doctor about virus fighting drugs that can reduce the length and strength of flu.
Identifying the need of Home remedies for Flu
- If you have fever or chest pain that keeps coming back.
- If you cough up mucus that is thick and colored .
- If you have an earache, facial swelling, drainage from the ear, or severe pain in your forehead or face.
- If you have fever higher than 102 degrees for more than 3 to 4 days.
