What is a Flu?
The flu, also known as influenza, is caused by influenza viruses that infect the respiratory tract (nose, throat, and lungs) of humans. There are four types of influenza viruses: A, B, C, and D. Influenza A and B viruses are responsible for most seasonal flu cases, while influenza C and D viruses usually cause mild respiratory illness.
The flu is highly contagious and spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. A person can also contract the flu by touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.
The influenza virus is constantly changing, which is why new flu vaccines are developed every year. This is because the virus can mutate or undergo genetic reassortment, resulting in new strains that may not be effectively targeted by previous vaccines. This is also why people can get the flu multiple times throughout their lives, as immunity to one strain does not necessarily protect against other strains.
Best Medicine for Flu
The flu is a viral infection, and there is no single “best” medicine for it. However, there are several treatments available that can help alleviate the symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness.
The most common medications used for treating the flu are antiviral drugs, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), and peramivir (Rapivab). These drugs work by inhibiting the replication of the flu virus, and they are most effective when taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.
In addition to antiviral drugs, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can be used to relieve fever, headaches, and body aches. Decongestants and cough suppressants may also be helpful in managing symptoms.
It’s important to note that antibiotics are not effective against the flu, as they only work against bacterial infections. If you suspect you have the flu, it’s best to speak with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment for your individual case. Additionally, getting a flu shot every year is one of the best ways to prevent getting the flu in the first place.
Oseltamivir, also known as Tamiflu, is an antiviral medication used to treat and prevent influenza (the flu). It is available in capsule form and is usually taken orally.
For treatment of the flu in adults and children over 12 years old, the typical dosage of oseltamivir is 75 mg twice daily for 5 days. For children between the ages of 1 and 12 years old, the dosage is determined based on their weight. For prevention of the flu, the typical dosage is 75 mg once daily for up to 6 weeks during an outbreak.
It’s important to note that oseltamivir works best when taken within 48 hours of the onset of flu symptoms. It can help alleviate symptoms, shorten the duration of illness, and reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia.
As with any medication, it’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider and to be aware of any potential side effects or drug interactions.
Zanamivir, also known as Relenza, is an antiviral medication used to treat and prevent influenza (the flu). It is available in a powder form and is usually inhaled through the mouth using a special inhaler device.
For treatment of the flu in adults and children over 7 years old, the typical dosage of zanamivir is 10 mg (two inhalations) twice daily for 5 days. For children between the ages of 5 and 7 years old, the dosage is 10 mg (two inhalations) twice daily for up to 5 days. It is not recommended for children under the age of 5.
For prevention of the flu, the typical dosage is 10 mg (two inhalations) once daily for up to 28 days during an outbreak.
Zanamivir works by inhibiting the activity of the influenza virus, which can help alleviate symptoms, shorten the duration of illness, and reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia.
As with any medication, it’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider and to be aware of any potential side effects or drug interactions.
Peramivir, also known as Rapivab, is an antiviral medication used to treat influenza (the flu). It is available as an injectable solution and is administered by a healthcare provider.
For treatment of the flu in adults, the typical dosage of peramivir is a single intravenous (IV) infusion of 600 mg, which takes about 15-30 minutes to administer. For children between the ages of 2 and 17 years old, the dosage is determined based on their weight.
Peramivir works by inhibiting the activity of the influenza virus, which can help alleviate symptoms, shorten the duration of illness, and reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia.
As with any medication, it’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider and to be aware of any potential side effects or drug interactions.
How to Prevent from Contracting Flu?
Preventing the flu involves taking several measures to reduce your risk of getting infected with the influenza virus. Here are some effective ways to prevent the flu:
Get vaccinated
The most effective way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccine every year. The flu vaccine can help protect against the flu viruses that are most likely to be circulating during the flu season.
Wash your hands frequently
The flu virus can survive on surfaces for several hours, so it’s important to wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Cover your nose and mouth
When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands. This can help prevent the spread of the flu virus to others.
Avoid close contact
Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and if you are sick, stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others.
Practice good health habits
Maintain a healthy lifestyle by getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, staying physically active, and managing stress. A healthy immune system can help protect against the flu.
Keep surfaces clean
Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched, such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops, to help prevent the spread of the flu virus.
By taking these measures, you can help reduce your risk of getting infected with the flu virus and spreading it to others.
