Influenza, also known as the flu, is a viral respiratory illness that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It is caused by the influenza virus, which can be spread through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
Causes:
The influenza virus is responsible for causing the flu. There are three main types of influenza viruses: A, B, and C. Influenza A is the most common type and is responsible for most flu outbreaks.
dosha:
In Ayurveda, influenza is considered a Pitta dosha disorder. An imbalance in Pitta dosha can lead to inflammation and damage in the respiratory system, leading to symptoms of the flu.
Danger without treatment:
Influenza can be dangerous, particularly for young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. In some cases, the flu can lead to pneumonia or other severe respiratory illnesses that require hospitalization.
Symptoms:
The symptoms of influenza can range from mild to severe and typically include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, and fatigue.
Precautions:
- Get vaccinated against the flu each year.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after being in contact with someone who is sick.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze with a tissue or your elbow.
- Stay home if you are sick to avoid spreading the virus to others.
- Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and a balanced diet to support your immune system.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Use a humidifier to keep the air moist, which can help reduce the severity of flu symptoms.
- Take prescribed antiviral medications as directed by a healthcare provider, particularly if you are at high risk for complications.
WHO Facts:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the flu is a significant global public health threat that causes severe illness and death each year. The organization notes that the flu virus is constantly evolving, which can make it difficult to develop effective vaccines and treatments. WHO recommends annual vaccination against the flu for everyone over six months of age and stresses the importance of early detection and treatment for those who do become infected. Additionally, the WHO advises that people with the flu should practice good respiratory hygiene to prevent the spread of the virus to others.