Flu is a contagious respiratory illness brought on by influenza viruses that can sometimes spread to the lungs as well as the nose and throat. It can lead to mild to severe illness, and occasionally even death. Getting vaccinated against the flu every year is the greatest approach to prevent the virus.
The following are typical flu symptoms:
These signs and symptoms appear one to four days (usually two) after being exposed to the virus and continue for two to eight days. Pneumonia, which can be brought on by the virus or a subsequent bacterial infection, can develop from influenza. Meningitis, encephalitis, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and worsening of pre-existing medical conditions like asthma and cardiovascular disease are some additional complications of infection.
The main method of influenza virus transmission in people is through respiratory droplets produced by coughing and sneezing. Flu viruses A, B, C, and D are the four different types of influenza viruses. Influenza A virus (IAV) is mostly carried by aquatic birds and is also common in many mammals, including humans and pigs. Influenza B virus (IBV), influenza C virus (ICV), primarily infects human and influenza D virus (IDV) found in cattle and pigs. Human IAV, IBV, and ICV circulate and generate seasonal epidemics, while ICV predominantly affects children and causes a moderate infection. IDV has the ability to infect humans but is not known to be harmful.
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