Influenza

Influenza, or 'the flu', is caused by a virus that targets birds and mammals. At its most potent, it has killed millions of people at different periods during the course of human history.

The video below provides a good overview of how the influenza virus works.

Most commonly, the virus can cause fatigue and weakness, head and body aches, fevers, sore throats, coughing, runny noses, watery eyes and chills. It can be hard to know if you have the flu at first because these symptoms are somewhat similar to a common cold or fever. This virus is much more serious though, especially if it develops into pneumonia, which often causes death in the very young or the elderly.

In April 2009, a new strain called 'swine flu' appeared. Despite its name, this virus is actually a combination of human, bird and pig influenza strains. The concern with such a new strain is that it can evolve with its new human carriers and spread rapidly, causing many deaths before a vaccination or natural immunity can be formed. However, the number of deaths recorded worldwide has been relatively low, and we seem to have escaped suffering a major pandemic for the moment. A similar situation occurred in the 1990s when there was concern in Asia with the spread of the so called 'avian (bird) flu'.

Every year, those most at risk of contracting influenza are recommended to receive a vaccination as a form of protection. Typically, young children, the elderly and those battling serious illnesses are encouraged to be vaccinated. These vaccinations provide immunity against certain strains of influenza, but they cannot provide a defence against new strains that were unknown or overlooked when the vaccine was made.

In Australia, people are able to receive a free flu vaccination when they turn 65. They are entitled to a free one every year. It is recommended that they have one before the start of the flu season, which usually runs between April and October. Your medical practitioner will be able to organise these vaccinations if you are over 65.

Good personal hygiene also prevents the spread of influenza, as the virus can be easily spread through contact with infected areas, including skin to skin contact, or inhaling particles from infected people coughing, sneezing and spitting. Washing your hands with a disinfectant will kill the virus, and spitting, coughing and sneezing away from people will help them avoid the virus as well.

There is no cure for influenza, so the best someone suffering from its effects can do is to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated and to avoid drinking alcohol or smoking. Some medicines can take the edge of the symptoms of the flu, such as throat lozenges for sore throats or paracetamol for head and body aches, but they will not cure the underlying cause of these symptoms.

Has influenza affected you or someone you know? Do you need help, or are you able to provide advice? If so, please join the SeniorSpace community discussing influenza on our forum here.

Useful Links

Health Insite, an Australian Government website, has an index of resources relating to influenza here.

An overview of the history and effects of influenza can be found in the Wikipedia entry here.

Influenza

Useful Links

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