Influenza (Flu) Treatment in Indore

What is influenza?

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.

It affects the nose, throat, and lungs, and can cause mild to severe illness.

The flu is contagious and can easily cause seasonal outbreaks, especially during the fall and winter seasons.

Transmission

Flu spreads mainly through:

Respiratory droplets produced by coughs or sneezes

direct contact with contaminated surfaces, subsequently touching the face

Less often: droplets that become airborne

High-risk groups for severe flu include:

Young children (<5 years)

Older adults (>65 years)

Pregnant individuals

People with chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease

Symptoms of Influenza

Symptoms typically develop 1–4 days after exposure and can last 5–7 days.

Common Symptoms

Sudden fever or chills

dry persistent cough

Sore throat

Runny or stuffy nose

Aches in muscles or the body

Headache

Fatigue or weakness

Sometimes vomiting or diarrhoea (more common in children)

Complications-More Severe Cases

Pneumonia (viral or bacterial)

Worsening of chronic conditions: asthma, heart disease

Dehydration

Rarely: encephalitis or multiorgan failure

Seek medical care if:

Unable to breathe

The fever is very high or persistent

The child is very lethargic or unable to drink fluids

Symptoms worsen instead of improving.

Prevention of Influenza

Prevention of influenza focuses on vaccination, hygiene, and reduction in exposure.

1. Annual Influenza Vaccination

Recommended for everyone 6 months and older

Protects against the most common circulating strains.

Reduces the severity if an infection occurs

High-risk groups profit most.

2. Good Hand Hygiene

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water

If soap is not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

3. Respiratory Etiquette

Cover mouth/nose when coughing or sneezing

Use tissues and dispose of them properly.

If tissues are unavailable, cough/sneeze into your elbow

4. Avoid Close Contact During Illness

Stay home when sick

Keep a distance from people showing flu symptoms

5. Clean and Disinfect Surfaces

Frequently touched objects should be cleaned regularly: doorknobs, phones, toys, keyboards

6. Healthy Lifestyle Measures

Adequate sleep

Balanced diet

Regular exercise

Managing stress

These support the immune system and may reduce the severity of infection.

Treatment (Supportive Care)

Most cases of the flu are mild and resolve in 5–7 days.

Rest, fluids, and control of fever are enough.

Antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir, may be prescribed within 48 hours in high-risk or severe cases.

Important Points to Note

Influenza is a contagious viral respiratory illness accompanied by a sudden onset of fever, cough, body aches, and fatigue.

These complications most often occur with children, older adults, and people who have chronic conditions. The most effective prevention is through annual vaccination, hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and avoiding contact with the sick. Early recognition and supportive care decrease complications.