INFLUENZA

Influenza or flu is a contagious disease caused by the Influenza Virus

INFLUENZA VIRUS

There are 3 subtypes of Influenza Viruses, namely A, B and C. all three can infect humans with Virus A being the most dangerous as it infects both animals and humans.
Type A influenza virus mutates (genetic change) to produce a new more dangerous influenza virus that can cause epidemic and pandemic.
The influenza virus is spread through droplets from the mouth and nose when speaking, sneezing or coughing. The virus then enters the body through the respiratory tract

Is influenza and common cold the same?

No. Even though both of them have similar symptoms, Influenza’s symptoms are more severe and may cause life-threatening complications.

COMPARISON between influenza and the common cold

Sympton Influenza Common
(flu) cold

Fever High. Normally Low.
Above 38C below 38 C

Fatigue Severe, lasting up Very mild
To 2-3 weeks

Muscle / joint Severe Mild

Cough Severe, without None / Mild
Phlegm in the
Beginning

Cold/ None / mild Severe
Runny nose

Sneeze Frequent Occasionally

Sore throat Severe None / Mild

Headache Severe Mild

Cause Influenza Virus Adenovirus,
A, B or C Rhinovirus ,
Parainfluenza
Virus and others.

What is the treatment for Influenza?

Symptomatic treatment is recommended
- Drink warm water and soup to relieve sore throat and cough.
- Maintain a balanced diet and sufficient sleep / rest.
- Avoid stress as it can weaken the body’s immune system
- If needed, get treatment from clinics or hospitals

How can we prevent influenza from spreading

- Cover mouth and nose with a tissue or handkerchief when sneezing or coughing.
- Wash hands with soap after coughing / sneezing or touching a contaminated surface.
- Dispose used tissues into the dustbin
- Wear a mask while infected with influenza
- Avoid being in public place when having a cold or influenza

The current influenza situation in Malaysia

According to studies, influenza infection occurs in Malaysia all year round. However, the number of cases increases during rainy season from April till June and November till January.

In countries with temperate climates the influenza infection rises during winter.

What is Avian Influenza?

Avian Influenza or bird flu is a contagious disease that normally infects poultry and birds. It can also infect humans.

What is influenza epidemic?

Influenza epidemic occurs when there is an outbreak of influenza among people in a certain location or country.

What is Influenza Pandemic?

Influenza pandemic occurs when influenza infects a large part of the world population. This occurs due to the emergence of a new influenza virus and the victims do not have the body immunity to fight that particular strain of virus.

Influenza virus can spread through droplets of liquid from the mouth and nose when speaking, sneezing or coughing. The virus then enterers the body through the respiratory tract.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH MALAYSIA

PUTRA JAYA

Nota:

Dah hampir dua bulan batuk saya tak kebah-kebah ... takut jugak kena selsema burung .. yalah saya ada bela kucing ... kekadang saya bawa pulang si Baby ke kampung ... manalah tahu dia dok dalam reban ayam or berdating dng kucing-kucing kampung ... syukur batuk saya dah mula susut... dan ahad yang lalu saya melawat saudara dihospital putra jaya ... ternampak lah broucher padal influenza ... baca punya baca banyak betul tanda-tanda ada kata saya .. yang peliknya utk mencegah cuma utama kan kebersihan dan minum banyak air panas ... huhuhuuhuhu pelikkan? sama dengan denggi berdarah ... cuba perlu minum banyak air masam ...