What is Influenza or the Flu?

Answer:
Influenza, also known as the flu, is

a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system. This includes the nose, throat, lungs, and bronchial tubes. This flu is not the same flu that is a stomach virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea.

People with weakened immune systems are the most susceptible to catching influenza. Older adults, children, and those with chronic illnesses are the most likely to become sick. However, this does not mean that influenza won't get you. Everyone has had it at one time or another.

If you are a high risk for the flu it is a good idea to get an annual flu shot. Shots don't provide 100 percent protection, but they can reduce your chances of catching influenza and help prevent serious complications in the event that you do become ill.

At the onset, the flu may seem a lot like a common cold that has runny nose, sneezing and sore throat. Colds typically develop slowly, whereas the flu tends to come on more suddenly. Colds are a nuisance, the flu is much worse.

Symptoms of the flu include:
    Fever over 101 F in adults, and often as high as 103 to105 F in children
    Chills and sweats
    Headache
    Dry cough
    Muscular aches and pains, especially in your back, arms and legs
    Fatigue and weakness
    Nasal congestion
    Loss of appetite
    Diarrhea and vomiting in children

The flu comes in three strains of viruses — influenza A, B and C. Type A is responsible for the deadly influenza pandemics that have been known to strike every 10 to 40 years. Type B can lead to smaller, more localized outbreaks. Types A or B can cause the flu that circulates nearly every winter. Type C has never been connected with a large epidemic.