Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a viral infection that affects a large number of people every year. The influenza virus is most active during the autumn and winter months. Most people are prone to be affected by the flu during these seasons; however, it can still be caught at any time of the year. Influenza affects your respiratory system including your nose, throat, bronchi and lungs. Symptoms of influenza are similar to that of the common cold and include high fever, chills and shivering, headache, tiredness due to restless sleep, vomiting and diarrhoea, cough, lack of appetite, runny or stuffy nose and body aches. Symptoms usually appear very suddenly with the onset within 24-48 hours. Unlike the common cold, if symptoms of influenza are not taken care of in time you may suffer from severe complications such as dehydration, bacterial pneumonia and worsening of certain medical conditions like cardiovascular problems, asthma or diabetes. Influenza can affect anyone including healthy people; however, the infection is more commonly reported amongst older people and children. It has been observed that older people are more vulnerable to influenza and require immediate treatment. If not treated in time the infection can lead to complications that may require hospitalization. Others considered at high risk from influenza infection include pregnant women, new mothers, HIV-infected adults and adolescents and people who have poor immunity. In addition, people with medical conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, kidney disease, heart disease or liver disease are considered at high risk for influenza. Experts suggest that people, who are in the high-risk group, must be more aware about the causes, symptoms and treatment of influenza. The influenza virus spreads among other people when an infected person sneezes or coughs. The tiny droplets spread in the air and easily infect other people who are around. Occasionally, a person may become infected by touching something with the virus on it and then touching their mouth or nose. Adults may be able to infect others 1 day before getting the symptoms and up to 7 days after getting sick. So it is possible to give someone the flu before you know you’re infected as well as while you are sick. Those who are infected with the flu virus are advised to take plenty of rest, drink plenty of liquids and avoid using alcohol and tobacco. Your doctor may also recommend the use of antiviral medications. Currently, one of the most popular antiviral medicines used for the treatment of flu is Tamiflu oseltamivir. Approved by the US FDA, Tamiflu has been found to be highly effective for the treatment as well as the prevention of influenza. To get effective results, Tamiflu treatment should be started within 1-2 days when the symptoms are first noticed. The medicine helps to reduce the severity of symptoms as well as the duration of the infection. In case, you are exposed to the flu virus you may take Tamiflu to prevent developing the symptoms. However, as Tamiflu is a prescription only drug, you would need to consult your doctor before you buy Tamiflu. These days, you can also buy Tamiflu online through online clinics.
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