What is meant by seasonal influenza?

Seasonal influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses which circulate in all parts of the world. It represents a year-round disease burden. It causes illnesses that range in severity and sometimes lead to hospitalization and death.

Is seasonal flu same as influenza?

There are four types of influenza viruses: A, B, C and D. Human influenza A and B viruses cause seasonal epidemics of disease (known as flu season) almost every winter in the United States. Influenza A viruses are the only influenza viruses known to cause flu pandemics, i.e., global epidemics of flu disease.

What are the symptoms of seasonal influenza?

People who are sick with flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:

• Fever* or feeling feverish/chills.
• Cough.
• Sore throat.
• Runny or stuffy nose.
• Muscle or body aches.
• Headaches.
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

What is seasonal influenza caused by?

The influenza A and B viruses that routinely spread in people (human influenza viruses) are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year. The best way to reduce the risk of flu and its potentially serious complications is by getting vaccinated each year.

Is there a cure for seasonal flu?

Are you or someone in your house sick with the flu? There’s no cure, but there are some natural ways to ease your symptoms.

Can you get sick from seasonal influenza?

However, the flu can be serious, and some people will develop other health issues, called complications, because of the flu. Complications can be mild, such as a sinus or ear infection, or more serious, like pneumonia. Anyone can get sick from the flu, but some people are more likely to have complications.

How is seasonal flu treated?

If you do come down with the flu, these measures may help ease your symptoms:

1. Drink plenty of liquids. Choose water, juice and warm soups to prevent dehydration.
2. Rest. Get more sleep to help your immune system fight infection.
3. Consider pain relievers.

How does seasonal flu survive?

The results from the study suggest that influenza actually survives longer at low humidity and low temperatures. At 43°F with very low humidity, most of the virus was able to survive more than 23 hours, whereas at high humidity and a temperature of 90°F, survival was diminished at even one hour into incubation (3).

How long do flu seasons last?

For many people, “flu season” and “winter” are synonymous. But flu season can last as long as 8 months — from October to May in the United States. Also, peak flu activity often varies depending on location.

How long does seasonal flu last?

Symptoms usually appear from one to four days after exposure to the virus, and they last five to seven days. For people who’ve had a flu shot, the symptoms may last a shorter amount of time, or be less severe. For other people, the symptoms may last longer. Even when symptoms resolve, you may continue to feel fatigued.