Everything you need to know about the flu virus

How do we get the flu and how long has the patient been the source of infection? Is there a cure for the flu, is it necessary to take vitamin C during the illness? In our article we will dispel all the myths about the flu, tell you about common mistakes in treatment, as well as about nutrition during this extremely unpleasant illness. Here you will find everything you need to know about the flu virus.

Is it possible to cure the flu with such "anti-flu" drugs as "Antigrippin", "Teraflu", "Fervex", etc. (All photos: Shutterstock)

Is there a cure for the flu? Yes, there is a new generation of flu drugs, the so-called neuraminidase inhibitors. These drugs are used not only in the treatment, but also in the prevention of influenza. They are effective only if they are taken at the very beginning of the disease, i.e. within 36-48 hours from the onset of symptoms.

Does vitamin C help in the treatment of flu?

What is the difference between flu and colds and how can they be distinguished?

The clinical picture of the flu looks somewhat different: the disease begins suddenly, it is characterized by a high temperature, often above 39 degrees, which lasts up to 3 days, chills, headache, joint and muscle pain, severe weakness, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, dry cough attacks.

Is it possible to diagnose the flu at home?

How long can a flu patient infect other people?

How do we get the flu?

No. Antibiotics do not help in the treatment of influenza, because they are used only to fight bacteria, not viruses. Therefore, in case of influenza infection, antibiotics should be avoided if there are no medical indications for this.

How can you protect yourself and your family from getting infected with the flu virus?

How can a vaccine created in the previous flu season help in the fight against new influenza viruses, which are known to mutate very quickly?

When is the best time to get a flu shot? Is it true that it needs to be done before October?

There are no special deadlines for vaccination, however, people from the high-risk group should be vaccinated as soon as the vaccine for the current season is available in pharmacies. When you need to be vaccinated is decided by a doctor who takes into account your state of health, whether you are taking antibiotics, have not done other vaccinations in the near future.

Many people believe that vaccination against influenza is ineffective, and vaccines are created by pharmaceutical companies only for profit, is it true?

Drink, drink and drink again.

Also drink herbal tea with lime, which has a diaphoretic effect and relieves fever, as well as tea with ginger, which stimulates the immune system.

Do not drink cough syrup before going to bed.

Be sure to take antipyretic drugs, but only at temperatures above 38.5 degrees.

During the flu, you need to stay at home, rest and be treated.

Do not underestimate the flu virus, because it can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, otitis media and even myocarditis — damage to the heart muscle.

How to treat a runny nose?

Cough will help not only syrups, but also warming ointments, which should be rubbed on the chest and back.

If you have a sore throat, rinse it with a warm infusion of chamomile or thyme. And also drink a warm hour with lemon and honey.

Prevention of influenza.

From colds and flu - vitamin D.

Wash your hands.

And finally, what to eat during the flu, when there is no appetite?

Fruit sorbet.

Garlic.

Vegetable juices.