From transitioning out of the rainy season into winter, the frequent shifts in weather and temperature pose challenges as they lead to a reduction in immunity. This, coupled with the looming threat of a flu outbreak, heightens the vulnerability of those at risk. Whether it's corporate gatherings in densely populated areas buzzing with celebratory spirits or the crowded rush-hour commutes on trains, the likelihood of catching the flu increases. From the year 2566 until October, the cumulative number of flu cases has reached 341,917 with a noticeable upward trend. Projections suggest that by the year-end, the tally may surge to four hundred thousand. To stay vigilant, let's delve into an understanding of the flu, its symptoms, causes, and straightforward preventive measures tailored for office workers.
Unpacking the Flu and its Variants:
The flu, a contagious respiratory ailment, finds its roots in the Influenza virus. It branches into three primary strains:
· Influenza A (H1N1, H1N2, H3N2, H5N1, and H9N2), with a prevalence of H1N1 and H3N2.
· Influenza B, featuring subtypes Yamagata and Victoria.
· Influenza C, a less common strain with mild symptoms and a reduced likelihood of widespread outbreaks.
Symptoms Exhibited by Flu Patients:
Typically emerging around two days post-infection, symptoms encompass:
· Elevated body temperature
· Shivers
· Generalized body aches
· Persistent cough
· Headache
· Sore throat
· Nasal congestion or runny nose
· Fatigue or weakness
· Watery eyes
· Gastrointestinal disturbances (more pronounced in children)
Modes of Flu Transmission:
o Contact via respiratory secretions: Transmission occurs through contact with surfaces holding respiratory droplets from infected individuals, such as saliva, nasal secretions, and mucus. This risk intensifies in crowded locales like offices, schools, markets, and restaurants.
o Direct contact: The virus can spread through contact with contaminated objects and subsequent touching of facial areas (eyes, nose, mouth), with the virus surviving on surfaces like plastic, subway poles, and clothing for up to three days.
Distinguishing Regular Flu from Influenza:
o Cause: Influenza results exclusively from the Influenza virus, whereas regular flu can stem from diverse viruses like Rhino Virus, RSV, and Adenovirus.
o Severity: Influenza tends to be more severe, often leading to complications such as bronchitis, middle ear infections, sinus infections, and more.
o Prevention: While influenza can be partially prevented through vaccination, there is no specific vaccine for regular flu.
Approaches to Treatment:
For mild flu symptoms, at-home remedies include staying well-hydrated, getting sufficient rest, using pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and employing a humidifier. If symptoms persist or worsen, especially with persistent high fever, body aches, and cough after 48 hours of medication, seeking medical attention is advisable.
Proactive Measures for Prevention:
Annual influenza vaccination, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), serves to bolster immunity and reduce the severity of illness and associated complications. Consistency in getting vaccinated every year is crucial.
Adhering to good personal hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing, mask-wearing, avoiding crowded spaces, and refraining from public activities when unwell, aids in preventing flu transmission.
Promoting an understanding of influenza, disseminating knowledge about symptoms and preventive measures, and encouraging vaccination efforts contribute significantly to safeguarding loved ones and steering clear of the flu. For Krungthai-AXA Life Insurance customers interested in healthcare, additional health-related articles can be explored at https://www.krungthai-axa.co.th/th/health-advisories
References:
· Hfocus.org
· WHO
· Cleveland Clinic
· Siriraj Piyamaharajkarun Hospital
· Nakornthon Hospital
· Insider.com
