Influenza

Influenza also known as flu, is the clinical condition that results from infection with influenza viruses.



The main effects of the influenza viruses are on the upper respiratory tract, the nose and throat, with possible spread and involvement of the lungs and bronchi.

The disease is highly contagious and it has potential to cause widespread epidemics affecting sizeable portion of a population at anytime. Although it is more common during the cold months, it may strike at any time.



It affects people of all ages.

Symptoms of Influenza

Influenza strikes suddenly. It usually begins with chills, fever, headache, loss of appetite, vomiting and severe muscular pains.



The patient feels miserable and weak. There is an inflammation in the nose and throat, which may spread down the windpipe to the lungs, resulting, in sore throat, cough, running of the nose and eyes. The face is flushed and the eyes become red.

In milder cases of influenza, the temperature rises to 120°F and lasts for two or three days. In severe cases, it may go up to 104°F and last for four or five days. The consequent weakness and fatigue may continue for several weeks. This may be followed by a deep chest cough due to irritation in the windpipe.

In children, the disease may start with a convulsion and a rapid rise in temperature to 105°F or 106°F. The patient feels extremely weak.

Causes of Influenza

Influenza is what is known as germ disease. It is, however, not caused primarily by the action of the germs as is generally believed, but develops due to the toxic and run-down condition of the system of the affected person. This condition is brought about by the dietetic errors and a faulty style of living such as worry, overwork, lack of proper exercise, living in stuffy rooms and keeping awake late hours. No disease germs can find lodgement and become active in the system of a person who is perfectly healthy in the true sense of the term. Influenza is passed on with ease from the affected person to many others who are also in an equally low vital state. That is how an epidemic starts.