Influenza is also known as Flu. It is an infection of the nose, throat and lungs, which are part of the respiratory system. Most people with the flu get better on their own.  But sometimes because of complications it can be deadly.

Facts:

The flu infects 5 to 20 percent of the U.S. population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

India has reported 28,798 cases of Influenza A (H1N1) and 1218 deaths in 2019.

Types of Influenza virus:

There are four types of Influenza viruses A, B C, and D. Let's find out what they are:

Influenza A - Type A viruses are the only influenza viruses known to cause flu pandemics. Type A can spread from animals to humans

Influenza B - Type B influenza virus causes seasonal epidemics of disease in people.

Influenza C - Type C virus infections generally cause mild illness and are not thought to cause human epidemics.

Influenza D - Type D viruses primarily affect cattle and are not known to infect or cause illness in people.

Symptoms:

Common symptoms of flu are:

• Dry and persistent cough
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Chills and sweats
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Fever

Causes:

Influenza viruses travel through the air in droplets when someone with the infection coughs, sneezes, or talks. You can inhale the droplets directly. You can also get germs from a surface, like a phone or computer keyboard, and then put them in your mouth, nose, or eyes. People with weak immune have more chances of getting flu.

Risk factors:

Factors that may increase your risk of catching the flu are:

Weak immune system - People who doesn't get proper meals are tend to have weaker immune system are more prone to catch flu.

Age - Seasonal influenza tends to have worse outcomes in children and older adults.

Living or working environment - People who live or work in facilities with many other residents, such as nursing homes. People who are staying in the hospital also are at higher risk.

Chronic illnesses - Chronic diseases like cancer, tumor, diabetes or any heart problems weakens your immune system and increase the chances of catching flu.